Link Between Oral Health and Overall Wellness

Regular dental visits are essential for maintaining oral health, as they complement routine brushing and flossing by providing necessary treatments to keep teeth and gums healthy and address any arising oral health issues effectively.

Many studies suggest a link between oral hygiene and overall health. The mouth contains countless bacteria, some of which can be harmful. This bacteria buildup can eventually lead to periodontal (gum) disease without proper oral hygiene.

Please keep reading to learn how oral health can affect your overall well-being.

Harmful oral bacteria

The Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland found that Streptococcus gordonii, an oral bacterium that contributes to plaque, can mimic fibrinogen. This is a human protein that plays a role in clotting. Bacterium masquerading as fibrinogen can enter the bloodstream through bleeding gums caused by gingivitis, a common gum disease. Worryingly, it could reach other body areas, including the heart.

Poor oral hygiene and cardiovascular disease

The American Heart Association found that infective endocarditis, or the inflammation of the heart's inner lining, can arise from oral bacteria entering the bloodstream. This is especially dangerous for those at high risk of cardiovascular disease.

Infective endocarditis is a lethal disease, and prevention efforts are crucial. According to the AHA, the best defenses against infective endocarditis are routine dental care and proper oral hygiene.

Oral health complications and pregnancy

Links between oral health complications and pregnancy have also been studied. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention found that between 60% and 75% of women have some degree of gingivitis. Often, this is due to the hormonal changes women undergo during pregnancy.

Data collected by the CDC also shows that one in four women of childbearing age have untreated cavities and that their children are more likely to have cavities themselves.

Links between periodontal disease and prediabetes

Dr. Keiko Watanabe, a Professor of Periodontics and researcher at the UIC College of Dentistry, studied how periodontitis could eventually lead to prediabetes. The research on mice showed that the pathogen introduced to the mouth influenced the pancreatic alpha and beta cells and the liver's Kupffer cells. Both organs are critical in the development of prediabetes/diabetes and maintain health.

According to this study, other warning signs of prediabetes, such as insulin resistance and gluten intolerance, were present in mice with prolonged exposure to periodontal bacteria.

Medications that can affect oral health

Medications taken regularly can cause complications in oral health. Antihistamines, antidepressants, diuretics, and even painkillers can decrease the flow of saliva, a key factor in maintaining adequate oral health.

Saliva neutralizes bacterial acids in the mouth and washes away leftover food. Reduced saliva production lowers the mouth's natural defenses against these harmful bacteria.

Minimize the risk of oral hygiene health complications

Besides routine brushing and flossing, regular visits to the dentist serve a critical role in maintaining oral health. Dental treatment keeps teeth and gums in pristine condition. A dentist will also have effective solutions to any oral health complications that may arise.

If you need a gentle, caring dental team, please call Jennifer Fineberg’s office at (623) 362-2550. We’ll give you the very best dental care we can!