HOW ORAL HEALTH CAN IMPACT YOUR OVERALL HEALTH

1. Cardiovascular Disease

Oral bacteria, especially those present in patients with gum disease, is responsible for the impact that your oral health has on the rest of your body. The primary vector by which this bacteria causes other complications is by entering the bloodstream. Certain oral bacteria can cause inflammation and damage to other systems in your body and to the cardiovascular system in particular.

People with tooth decay and gum disease are at a greater risk for heart attack and stroke. While these conditions are most commonly caused by cholesterol blockages in the arteries, any constriction of the arteries places you at greater risk. Oral bacteria can cause arterial inflammation that constricts the arteries, and plaque in the bloodstream can also create blockages.

Endocarditis is one cardiovascular condition of particular concern to those with poor oral health. Endocarditis is infection of the inner lining of the chambers and valves of the heart that can lead to permanent cardiac complications. Some types of oral bacteria can attach to these linings and cause endocarditis. Patients undergoing invasive dental procedures are often administered antibiotics to reduce the risk of this condition.

2. Diabetes

Type 2 diabetes is characterized by the inability of the body to absorb insulin effectively and maintain safe blood glucose levels. While a causal link between oral infections and diabetes has not been found, there is evidence that oral bacteria can further inhibit insulin absorption and make it more difficult for diabetic patients to manage the condition.

Maintaining dental hygiene is particularly important for people with diabetes because diabetes and oral infections have a two-way relationship. This means that oral bacteria make it more difficult to manage diabetes, and diabetes makes it harder for your body to fight infections such as gum disease. High blood glucose levels weaken white blood cells, making your body more susceptible to oral infections.

3. Pregnancy Complications

Gum disease and oral bacteria in the blood are causes of concern for expecting mothers. Preterm birth and low birth weight are complications related to inflammation in the placenta. As tissues in the placenta become inflamed, it becomes less capable of delivering nutrients to the fetus. Oral bacteria in the blood will increase the inflammatory response in the placenta and increase the risk of these complications. 

4. Respiratory Infection

In addition to infecting the body through the circulatory system, oral bacteria has another vector of entry through aspiration. As we breathe, bacteria in the mouth can easily make its way into the lungs. Bacteria such as streptococcus and staphylococcus can be present in the mouth and may cause bacterial pneumonia when breathed in. 

Aspirated oral bacteria is also a problem for people with chronic respiratory conditions. Inflammation caused by oral bacteria can worsen conditions such as COPD and emphysema and will often reduce the effectiveness of treatment for these conditions. There is no way to prevent aspiration of oral bacteria, but regular dental visits can reduce your risk of respiratory infections.

Your body consists of many interrelated systems, and the health of each will have an impact on your overall well-being. Make your oral health a priority, and visit us at Desert Dental for a comprehensive solution to your dental care needs!