How dental health affects general health

Does it surprise you when someone mentions that the state of your teeth can affect your general health? Research has shown that oral diseases are connected with a range of other conditions affecting the body, among them diabetes, lung disease, osteoporosis and heart attack. Sometimes the state of your teeth and gums can also affect your mental health by influencing your quality of life. Let us learn more about the connection between good oral health and general physical wellbeing.

The mouth is the starting point for the relationship between dental health and the health of other parts of the body. It is the gateway through which all the pathogens and bacteria that cause disease reach the digestive system. According to a number of studies, oral bacteria and periodontitis — the inflammation that accompanies an advanced form of gum disease — can cause a variety of health problems. Conversely, conditions such as diabetes and HIV/AIDS can also reduce the body’s natural resistance to infection.

Researchers examined more than a thousand different medical cases connected with oral disease and found that the risk of heart attack was twice as high in people with gum disease as in the general population. There is a possibility that the germs causing the oral infection find their way into the bloodstream, which can affect several parts of the body, the heart in particular.

Conditions linked to oral health

Diabetes

Patients with diabetes need to pay far more attention to their oral health to avoid complications. According to recent studies, diabetes can lead to infections, discomfort and other oral health problems. When someone has diabetes and is unable to regulate their condition, the glucose level in their saliva rises, which leads to a higher germ load in the mouth.

Alzheimer’s disease

Recent research suggests that the bacteria living in the mouth may be connected with Alzheimer’s disease, caused by a bacterium called Porphyromonas gingivalis, familiar from gingivitis. It is possible for bacteria from the mouth to reach the brain, where they release enzymes that are toxic to nerve cells and cause memory loss.

Pneumonia

The likelihood of developing pneumonia rises with poor dental care. Natural bacteria that develop in the mouth can reach the lungs, where they can potentially lead to pneumonia and a raised risk of emphysema.

HIV/AIDS

People living with HIV or AIDS have a raised risk of developing dental infections. It is possible for the mouth to be the first part of the body affected by HIV. As a result of the infection the immune system is weakened, which can lead to pain in the mouth and the loss of teeth. Dry mouth, thrush, mouth ulcers and reddening of the gums are further possible complications.

Protecting your dental health

Here are some ways to maintain optimal dental health:

• Brush your teeth at least twice a day. Many people skip brushing before bed. Brushing in the evening removes bacteria and plaque that have gathered through the day.
• Problems with your oral health can also be caused by your tongue. It is necessary to brush not only the teeth but also the tongue, to remove the plaque that can form there.
• Rinse your mouth thoroughly with mouthwash after brushing to remove all food debris.
• Watch your diet. Eat healthily and reduce the amount of sugary food and drink you consume.
• Under no circumstances should you use tobacco products.
• Make sure to have your teeth checked and cleaned regularly at the dentist.

Given that dental care is closely connected with general health, oral health should not be underestimated.

Conclusion

To make sure you receive the best possible treatment, have your oral health examined at a reputable practice. If you have problems with your teeth, our practice in Cologne is the right place to turn to.