The Connection: Oral Health and Overall Health

Research has proven it to be true: The condition of your oral health is connected to your overall health.

Periodontal Disease

Poor oral hygiene can lead to conditions such as Periodontal Disease (also known as gum disease).

The Gum Disease Process

Our mouths are naturally full of bacteria.  However, when proper oral hygiene and professional cleanings are neglected, this bacteria builds up in the form of plaque and tarter on our teeth.  The longer they stay on teeth, the more harmful they become.  Eventually, it causes the gums to start pulling away from the teeth, creating spaces that become infected.  Your immune system will try to fight off the infection by breaking down the bone and connective tissue that holds your teeth in place.  Untreated, this will lead to the destruction of your teeth’s supporting structures and tooth loss.

However, your mouth and teeth aren’t the only thing that suffer from the effects of Gum Disease.

How Your Oral Health Affects The Rest Of Your Body

  • Periodontal disease increases your risk of
    • weakened immune system
    • Diabetes
    • Stroke
    • Lung Disease
    • Preterm low birth weight babies
    • Osteoporosis
    • Gastric ulcer
  • Periodontal Disease increases the risk of cardiovascular disease and fatal heart attacks
  • High levels of disease-causing bacteria in the mouth can lead to clogging of the Carotid Artery and increased risk of stroke.
  • Bacteria often enters the body through the mouth.  With poor oral care, infections progress faster.  this increases the diseases your kidneys must fight off.
  • Poor oral health worsens respiratory illnesses by promoting growth of harmful bacteria that can be transported to the lungs.

Want to know more?  Check out these articles on the connection between oral health and overall health:

Oral Health Directly Related to Overall health

Three Common Health Problems Tied to Oral Health

Heart and Mouth Connection: The Link between Heart Disease and Oral Health

Good Oral Health Care Can Lead to Better Management of Diabetes

Poor oral hygiene can impact our physical, mental well-being.