Can Bad Teeth and Oral Health Affect Your Overall Wellbeing?
By Dr Lee Lichtenstein
Your oral health is more than just a matter of a bright smile or fresh breath—it’s deeply connected to your overall wellbeing. Poor dental hygiene, gum disease, and untreated oral infections can have far-reaching effects on your body, contributing to serious health conditions. Bad health can manifest itself in various ways, much beyond just discomfort in the mouth. When oral infections spread beyond the oral cavity, they can result in systemic illnesses that can affect the entire body. Severe gum disease can also lead to cardiovascular and respiratory issues, presenting as persistent coughing, difficulty breathing, or chest tightness.
If gum disease is left untreated, it can break down the soft tissue in the mouth. The decline of the tissue can lead to chronic pain, difficulties speaking and swallowing, loss of sleep, and tooth loss. These can contribute to poor overall health.
The mouth serves as the gateway to the rest of your body, and its health can affect your entire system. The mouth is home to a mix of bacteria, some good and some harmful. Proper oral hygiene keeps harmful bacteria in check, but poor hygiene can allow bacteria to grow out of control. This can lead to infections like gum disease (periodontitis), which creates inflammation that may spread throughout the body.
Conditions like gum disease allow bacteria to enter the bloodstream, potentially affecting other organs. This is why oral infections are often linked to broader health problems. If you will be having replacement major joint (hip, knee, shoulder, elbow, etc.) orthopedic surgery, please check with your orthopedic surgeon how this may interact with your joint.
Health Conditions Linked to Poor Oral Health
There are several health problems that can be caused or worsened by poor oral health:
Cardiovascular Disease: Gum disease and inflammation are associated with an increased risk of heart disease and stroke. Bacteria from the mouth can travel through the bloodstream, leading to arterial inflammation and plaque buildup.
Diabetes: Poor oral health is a two-way street with diabetes. High blood sugar levels can make gum infections worse, while gum disease can make it harder to control blood sugar levels.
Respiratory Infections: Bacteria from the mouth can be inhaled into the lungs, potentially causing or worsening respiratory issues like pneumonia.
Cognitive Decline: Emerging research suggests a potential link between gum disease and cognitive decline, including Alzheimer’s disease, possibly due to chronic inflammation.
Bone Loss and Jaw Issues: Untreated gum disease can lead to bone loss in the jaw, causing loose teeth or even tooth loss, which affects chewing, digestion, and speech. If you are taking medicine for osteoporosis, please check with both your physician and dentist how this may interact with your jaw bone and oral health care.
If you’re wondering whether your oral health might be affecting your overall wellbeing, watch for these signs:
- Bleeding gums during brushing or flossing.
- Chronic bad breath (halitosis).
- Red, swollen, or tender gums.
- Loose teeth or receding gums.
- Pain when chewing or sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods.
- Persistent ulcers or sores in the mouth that don’t heal.
These symptoms are often signs of gum disease, cavities, or other infections that could impact your overall health if left untreated.
Tips for Maintaining Good Oral and Overall, Health
The good news is that improving your oral hygiene can have a ripple effect on your entire body. Here’s how to keep your teeth, gums, and overall health in check:
Brush Twice a Day: Use fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush to remove plaque and protect against cavities. Dr. Lichtenstein recommends brushing after every meal and right before bed time – this would be three – four times each day. Especially, if you have gingivitis, periodontal disease, or a foul mouth odor.
Floss Daily: Flossing removes debris and bacteria that brushing alone can’t reach.
Visit the Dentist Regularly: Schedule dental checkups every 6 months for professional cleanings and to catch problems early.
Eat a Balanced Diet: A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains supports oral health and overall wellbeing. Avoid sugary snacks and drinks that contribute to decay.
Quit Smoking: Smoking is a major risk factor for gum disease, tooth loss, and oral cancer.
Stay Hydrated: Drinking water helps wash away food particles and promotes saliva production, which naturally protects your teeth.
Manage Stress: High stress levels can lead to teeth grinding (bruxism), gum inflammation, and even dry mouth, which increases the risk of cavities.
Your oral health isn’t just about a nice smile, it’s a key component of your overall health. Ignoring dental problems can lead to more serious issues that affect your heart, lungs, and even your brain. The good news is that taking care of your teeth with consistent hygiene practices and regular dental visits can have far-reaching benefits for your wellbeing. Contact our office today for an evaluation www.dentalphobianj.com