The link between oral health and Overall Health

There exists this misapprehension about the fact that oral and overall health are two different essences. They’re absolutely not. The principal entry point to nutrition and oxygen, the mouth is also the fundamental part of good oral health, seeing as everything starts from there. The difference between the two has much more to do with the way healthcare is practiced rather than actual medical science. Unluckily, the division drives many people into believing that dental care is in some way less essential than general medical care. This blog will make you understand the difference and the relation, by setting the record straight and telling you about:

  • How does oral health relate to overall health?
  • The significance of oral health
  • Consequences of inadequate oral health
  • Factors that impact oral health
  • Tips for maintaining proper oral hygiene

Image illustrating proper oral health

How does oral health relate to overall health?

Just like any other area in the body, the mouth pours down to bacteria, mainly harmless. But as aforementioned, the mouth is the access point to the digestive and respiratory tracts, and some of the entering bacteria can cause diseases.

Typically, the natural defenses of the body and the good oral health care that involve brushing, and flossing, are enough to keep the bacteria away. Nevertheless, without the appropriate oral hygiene, bacteria can reach levels that might make oral infections occur or commence, for instance, tooth decay and gum disease.

In addition, some medications- such as diuretics, antihistamines, painkillers, antidepressants, and decongestants- can minimize the saliva flow. Saliva is the component helpful in washing away the food and neutralizing acids produced by bacteria in the mouth, aiding this way in protecting you from microbes that might multiply and lead to diseases.

Research has shown that the inflammation and oral bacteria related to the most severe form of gum disease, called periodontitis, may play a huge role in some diseases. And some diseases, including diabetes and HIV or AIDS, can reduce the body’s resistance to infection, turning oral health issues into much more severe. 

Image illustrating patient at the dentist

The significance of oral health

Numerous people think of their mouth as a separate part from the rest of their body, whether it is because of the fact that the dentist is different from the doctor, or because the dental insurance is not packaged with the rest of the health insurance.

In point of fact, you should consider your mouth an expansion of the rest of the body. A dental professional can easily get a sense of what your overall health is, by simply taking a look at your mouth. Having poor oral conditions can lead to conditions like:

  • Gingivitis is a mild or early form of gum disease that comes as a result of the bacteria infecting the gums.
  • Periodontal disease is a gum infection that causes bone loss around teeth, as well as leads to inflamed gums.
  • Tooth decay occurs for different reasons such as untreated cavities.

Consequences of inadequate oral health

Poor oral health goes beyond yellowing teeth and bad breath, it contributes to many other health issues that affect your whole body. The following are some of the most crucial ones:

Consequences of poor oral health on cardiovascular health

Cardiovascular disease

The more generic phrase “cardiovascular disease” refers to a bunch of disorders related to the heart and the blood vessels. Consequently, poor oral health is connected with many forms of cardiovascular diseases, among which:

  • Coronary artery disease: Being the most commonly known heart disease, coronary artery disease can lead to heart failure, heart attack, and much more. As a matter of fact, it is the leading cause of death in Albania.
  • Clogged arteries: Research shows that people who suffer from periodontal disease have a higher risk of atherosclerosis, which is a condition during which the plaques build up inside the blood vessels that deliver blood and oxygen from the heart to the body.
  • Stroke: Studies have shown there is a strong relation between periodontal disease and stroke, particularly strokes that are associated with atherosclerosis.

An admonition though, remembers that despite the fact that cardiovascular disease and periodontal disease are interconnected, there is no evidence of one causing the other.

Endocarditis

If you have pre-existing heart conditions, such as heart disease or other heart-related health conditions, you are at an increased likelihood of developing endocarditis, which is characterized by inflammation of the heart valve lining and, in some cases, the lining of the heart chambers.

Pregnancy and birth complications

When pregnant, there are some extra reasons to take good care of your body, including your mouth. In pregnant women, poor oral health is connected to:

  • Fetal growth restriction refers to poor growth of the baby during pregnancy.
  • Gestational diabetes is a form of diabetes that occurs during pregnancy and can affect the baby’s health.
  • Low birth weight, when a baby is born weighing less than 2.9 kgs, which can pose health risks.
  • Miscarriage is the loss of a pregnancy before the 20th week.
  • Stillbirth is the loss of a pregnancy after the 20th week.
  • Preeclampsia is a condition characterized by high blood pressure during pregnancy that can affect the health of both the mother and the baby.

Keep in mind- oral bacteria can move into the bloodstream and induce harm to the fetus.

Image illustrating pneumonia, a a consequence of poor oral health

Pneumonia

The possession of cavities has been coupled with the development of pneumonia, lung inflammation, and infection that comes from the presence of bacteria, viruses, or fungi.

What most scientists think is that the bacteria found in the mouth can be drawn out into the upper airway and make their way to the lung, which may then cause pneumonia. This is even easier for the bacteria that cause respiratory infections to stick in the lungs.

Other issues

Undoubtedly, to consume healthy meals, the key factor is having a healthy mouth. It is a well-known fact that the process of eating, critical for our existence, depends entirely on having teeth in the mouth and healthy teeth and gums.

Untreated cavities can lead to poor nutrition and diminutive growth and development in children. Moreover, they can cause problems such as:

  • Cellulitis is a bacterial infection that can occur in the mouth, causing inflammation and infection of the soft tissues.
  • Facial swelling can result from dental infections, abscesses, or other oral health problems.
  • Gum diseases, including gingivitis and periodontitis, are caused by bacterial infections in the gums and can lead to inflammation, bleeding, and tooth loss if left untreated.

Factors that impact oral health

There are a few factors associated with oral health and systemic health. Below are some of the links:

Common risk factors

Systemic disorders and periodontal disease share the same number of common risk factors, such as:

  • Poor diet, particularly a high sugar intake.
  • Tobacco use, including smoking or chewing tobacco.
  • Excessive alcohol consumption.
  • High-stress levels, which can lead to teeth grinding (bruxism)

All of the aforementioned things can lead to periodontal disease and cavities, and they can also be the cause of systemic health disorders, so it is quite sensible that if you have one or more of these risk factors, you might even have other health-related concerns.

Genetics

Put the blame on your mother and father. Studies show that numerous people are much more predisposed to evolving periodontal disease and systemic diseases.

Image illustrating  factors affecting your oral health such as your immune system

Your body’s response to bacteria

The body’s response to bacteria is not, intrinsically, genetic, but it is however connected to the unique and innate bodily responses. Each individual’s body responds differently to bacteria. For example, our bodies mount a great response to bacteria that can, in fact, in several people, cause infections, inflammations, and damage.

One thing that distinguishes people who have both periodontal disease and systemic disease is the level of inflammatory molecules like C-reactive protein, which is often elevated.

Certain medical conditions

The fact that poor oral health can contribute to other medical conditions, but so can the reverse, should be recognized and accepted. There exist some diseases and disorders that can be the cause of oral health problems.

The biggest one having an effect is diabetes. People who don’t control their diabetes, have a much bigger risk of developing periodontal disease and having a periodontal disease that can be more harsh and serious in nature.

Another condition related to periodontal disease is osteoporosis. Research suggests that the low bone mineral density connected to the condition can affect the jaw. The kind of bone loss related to periodontal disease is named alveolar bone loss, with reference to the part of the jawbone that has tooth sockets.

Some other conditions that can influence oral health incorporate:

  • Alzheimer’s disease.
  • Fibromyalgia.
  • HIV/AIDS.
  • Prostate cancer.
  • Rheumatoid arthritis.

Dentists explain that numerous recent studies have revealed correlations between these conditions and periodontal disease, and further data is expected to provide additional evidence of their interconnectedness.

Image illustrating oral health care and tips

Tips for maintaining proper oral hygiene

If you’re beginning to feel anxious about not having flossed your teeth today (or this week), remember to take a deep breath. There are numerous steps you can take immediately to enhance your oral hygiene routine and maintain a healthy and happy mouth.

Here’s what dental professionals recommend.

  • Dental professionals advise brushing your teeth twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, ensuring that you brush for a full two minutes. It is recommended to use an electric toothbrush.
  • It is recommended to floss your teeth at least once a day. To hit those hard-to-reach areas, use traditional dental floss instead of floss picks. If you’re unsure about the proper flossing technique, don’t hesitate to ask your dentist or dental hygienist for guidance.
  • Consider trying additional home tools for oral hygiene, such as mouthwash or a Waterpik. These options can assist in maintaining optimal oral health.
  • It’s important to visit your dentist twice a year for regular exams, X-rays, and cleanings to maintain a healthy smile and overall well-being. Dentists suggest that frequent dental check-ups have been proven to lower the risk of developing conditions such as stroke.
  • Consider scheduling an appointment with a periodontist, especially if you haven’t visited one before. Dental professionals advise making an annual appointment with a periodontist to ensure the health of your gums and jaw, and to help you keep them healthy.
  • It’s important to manage your overall health, including conditions like diabetes, and osteoporosis as they can have an impact on your oral health. 
  • Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is beneficial for both your body and your oral health. Try regular exercise, consume a nutritious diet, and avoid harmful habits like smoking and excessive alcohol consumption. What’s good for your body also is good for a healthy mouth. 

Dentists emphasize the significance of oral health on overall health. Taking care of your teeth and mouth is crucial, as oral health can have a direct impact on your overall well-being. 

Dealing with dental anxiety or fear

To tell you the truth, periodontists, and orthodontists, all know that you may be anxious and scared of going to them for a visit. However, you should also know that they are knowledgeable of how to handle nervous patients and try to make the whole process less anxiety or fear-inducing.

There exist different ways that a dental professional can help you with your dental anxiety and fear, and there are so many advantages to having routine dental care that dentists really hope you won’t let your nerves keep you away.

Image illustrating toothache as an indication of poor oral health

Indications of inadequate oral hygiene

The following are signs of poor oral care habits and hygiene:

  • Toothache
  • Gum disease, including gingivitis and periodontitis
  • Receding gums
  • Mouth sores
  • Bad breath
  • Sensitivity to hot and cold foods
  • Dry mouth and dental issues related to it
  • Any other condition that causes discomfort or health problems in the oral cavity.

What are 5 examples of oral health conditions?

Examples of common oral diseases and conditions include:

  • Tooth decay can result in broken teeth and tooth loss.
  • Gingivitis is an inflammation of the gums caused by plaque buildup.
  • Periodontal disease is a more severe gum disease that can spread to the jaw and bones, leading to inflammation in the body.
  • Tooth sensitivity or discomfort from hot or cold foods and beverages are often caused by thin enamel, receding gums, or other factors.
  • Oral cancer is a serious condition that affects thousands of Albanians annually, with tobacco use being a significant risk factor.

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