Oral health affects body functions like eating, speaking, and smiling, but it can also impact overall health and well-being. Establishing good dental hygiene habits and scheduling regular visits to the dentist are key steps for maintaining oral health. Here are some ways oral health impacts an individual’s overall well-being:
Cardiovascular Health
Without good oral hygiene and regular dentist visits, harmful bacteria can build up and inflame the gums. These bacteria can release toxins and travel throughout the bloodstream, causing inflammation in the lining of the blood vessels. Chronic inflammation may damage those blood vessels and cause atherosclerosis. For those with gum disease, the bacteria and toxins can impair the function of the endothelium, the thin layer of cells lining the interior of the blood vessels. A healthy endothelium helps regulate blood pressure and blood flow and prevents blood clots. When the endothelium is dysfunctional, it may cause narrowed arteries, high blood pressure, and an increased risk of heart attack and stroke.
Immune System
Maintaining good oral hygiene helps keep the balance of beneficial and harmful oral bacteria in check, minimizing the risk of infection. Oral infections activate an immune response, resulting in white blood cells fighting the bacteria in the mouth. When white blood cells are busy working within the mouth, fewer cells are available to fight off germs elsewhere in the body. Individuals may become vulnerable to other infections and illnesses. If the bacteria enter the bloodstream, it can cause additional immune system concerns and serious infections like infective endocarditis.
Respiratory Health
Poor oral health can lead to gum disease and dental problems like loose teeth, increasing the risk of bacteria accumulation in the mouth. If dental problems are present, aspiration risk may also increase. Aspiration occurs when an individual inhales foreign substances, such as food, liquid, or saliva, into the airway and lungs instead of going down the esophagus into the stomach. When this happens, individuals with poor oral health sometimes inhale oral bacteria along with the saliva or fluids. The bacteria can cause an inflammatory response or respiratory infections like pneumonia, negatively affecting an individual’s overall respiratory health.
Pregnancy
When gum disease causes an inflammatory response in the body, inflammatory chemicals can travel through the bloodstream and affect the placenta. This inflammation has the potential to disrupt the delicate balance needed for a healthy pregnancy and trigger early labor. Severe gum disease may also lead to pockets around the teeth where bacteria can accumulate. In some cases, these bacteria enter the bloodstream and travel to the uterus, impacting the fetus and leading to premature birth.
Diabetes
People with diabetes tend to have higher levels of glucose in their bloodstream. This may result in increased glucose levels in the saliva. An excessive glucose amount provides a source of food for the bacteria that cause gum disease. With this readily available fuel source, the bacteria may multiply more rapidly, forming more plaque and accelerating gum inflammation. High blood glucose levels also slow down white blood cells, affecting the body’s ability to heal and fight infection. Even minor gum issues can worsen quickly in individuals with diabetes. As gum disease progresses, the body’s inflammatory response intensifies. This reduces the body’s ability to control blood glucose levels.
Tips for Maintaining Good Oral Health
There are several ways to reduce the risk of health concerns caused by poor oral health. Brushing and flossing regularly helps remove plaque, bacteria, and food particles that lead to cavities and gum disease. Good oral hygiene habits also include cleaning the tongue with a tongue scraper or toothbrush, using fluoride toothpaste, and avoiding abrasive brushing that may damage tooth enamel or gums. Individuals should attend their scheduled dental visits as recommended by their dentist. This allows dental professionals to conduct comprehensive cleanings, check for signs of oral infections, and monitor overall oral health.
Visit a Dentist Today
Regular dental visits allow dentists to detect and address dental problems early, promoting oral health and well-being. Good oral health reduces the risk of systemic diseases and supports long-term oral function. Schedule an appointment with your dentist today to learn more about protecting your health with consistent oral hygiene practices.
