The Link Between Oral Health & Overall Health
The mouth is both literally and figuratively a doorway to the rest of the body. Several systemic health problems are marked by signs and symptoms within the oral cavity. Oral health issues are closely correlated to an increased risk and occurrence of systemic health issues. This connection between oral health and the overall health of the body is commonly referred to as oral-systemic health.
How Are Oral Health and General Health Connected? The Mouth-Body Connection Explained
Contemporary medicine does not yet offer a comprehensive explanation of how or why oral health and general health are connected, but the evidence of an oral-systemic connection is undeniable, as several systemic health concerns are closely associated with oral health issues and vice versa.
Although the connection is not entirely understood, most experts believe that the harmful bacteria, which are present in an unhealthy mouth, enter the bloodstream and spread throughout the body, harming organs and other parts of a person’s anatomy as well as causing generalized inflammation.
In some cases of oral-systemic health, the connection is more obvious and clearly understood.
The Mouth-Body Connection: Correlations Between Oral Health and General Health
Several systemic conditions and other issues are related to oral health, such as:
Periodontal Disease and Systemic Health Risks
Periodontal disease (gum disease) is a bacterial infection of the gingival pockets, and it is closely associated with systemic diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, chronic respiratory infections, dementia, certain types of cancer, rheumatoid arthritis, and reproductive health problems (most commonly preterm birth). Having periodontal disease increases the risk of developing each of the above-listed conditions, and the above-listed conditions increase the risk of developing periodontal disease.
Hormonal Changes and Oral Health Risks
Additionally, hormonal changes experienced during pregnancy and menopause can also have a negative impact on oral health, increasing the risk of dental and periodontal disease.
Systemic Diseases and Oral Cancer
Certain inflammatory diseases, human papillomavirus (HPV) infections, actinic cheilitis, and genetic syndromes can increase the risk of oral cancer.
Other Systemic Diseases and Disorders
In addition to those listed above, a wide array of other systemic diseases and disorders are associated with oral health problems, such as osteoporosis, osteoarthritis, sleep apnea, Sjogren’s disease, xerostomia, hypophosphatasia, and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).
Poor Nutrition
Poor oral health can make it difficult to eat properly, preventing a person from getting adequate nutrition and harming their overall health. Conversely, making poor dietary choices can harm oral health.
Oral Health and the Immune System
Oral health problems, like dental disease and periodontal disease, lead to chronic oral inflammation, and this can weaken the immune system. As a result, the body becomes increasingly susceptible to viruses and infections. Conversely, a weak immune system increases the risk of oral health problems.
How to Support Good Oral-Systemic Health
As you can see, oral health plays a vital role in maintaining and supporting good general health throughout the body. Maintaining your oral health will strengthen your immune system and reduce your risk of developing a wide array of health problems.
The following health practices can help promote good oral and overall health:
- Professional Dental Cleaning and Examination – A professional dental cleaning (called prophylaxis) and examination reduces your risk of oral health problems while ensuring signs and symptoms of issues are detected and addressed promptly.
- Good Oral Hygiene Habits – Practicing good oral hygiene habits at home will maintain your oral health between dental appointments, reducing the risk of tooth decay, cavities, and periodontal disease. We recommend brushing twice a day for two minutes and flossing at least once a day.
- Healthy Diet – Eating a healthy, well-balanced diet (that’s low in added sugar) helps support a strong immune system, healthy microbiome, and strong teeth and gums.
- Hydration – Drinking plenty of water to stay hydrated will help maintain optimal saliva flow that helps wash harmful bacteria from the mouth while remineralizing the surfaces of teeth.
- Addressing Systemic Health Issues – Systemic health problems should never be ignored. Work closely with a general practitioner (or a specialist when necessary) to keep any chronic systemic diseases, like cardiovascular disease or diabetes, well-managed.
When to Visit the Dentist for Optimal Oral-Systemic Health
While your individually recommended dental care schedule will vary based on your current oral health, existing risk factors, and oral hygiene goals, on average, most healthy adults visit the dentist at least twice a year for routine prophylaxis and a dental examination.
At Great Smile Dental, we prioritize preventive care and personalized treatments tailored to support each patient’s oral health and overall wellness goals. To learn more about how dental hygiene exams support the mouth-body connection and your health or to request your next appointment, we welcome you to contact our office today.
