The Connection Between Oral And General Health

The most obvious reason for taking care of your teeth is maintaining that perfect, pearly-white smile. But when it comes to oral health, cosmetics pale in comparison to some of the greater potential risks. The link between oral care and general health can be surprising and alarming.

Many times, the culprit is gum disease, with almost half of those suffering from it also being afflicted by another chronic condition. Cardiovascular diseases, for example, can be triggered by plaque entering the bloodstream and clogging arteries. In fact, 9 out of 10 people with heart disease also have gum disease. Similarly, endocarditis, where the heart’s inner lining becomes infected, can be caused by oral bacteria entering the bloodstream through the gums.

There’s also give-and-take between the mouth and other parts of the body. For example, oral infections have been linked with diabetes, hindering the body’s ability to control blood sugar levels. In turn, the altered blood sugar control causes more infections in the mouth, creating a vicious cycle that has the potential to snowball poor health.

The list goes on and on. Inflamed gums can have an effect on the development of a fetus, leading to potentially low birth weight in newborns. Osteoporosis has been linked to tooth loss. Even Alzheimer’s disease has been connected to oral health by an unclear correlation with tooth loss early in life.

The mouth is the gateway into the body, so it makes sense that we pay close attention to what goes in and out. Brushing, flossing and rinsing regularly, as well as making frequent trips to the dentist, can help prevent serious complications further down the line.