Dental Health and Disease: What To Know

A healthy mouth contributes to a healthier you.

When we think about health and wellness, the focus is often on nutrition, exercise, mental health, or disease prevention. One area that is frequently overlooked is oral health.

Maintaining a healthy mouth is not only about avoiding cavities; it plays a vital role in the health of the entire body.

Your oral health

The mouth is home to countless bacteria, most of which are harmless. Poor oral hygiene may lead to an overgrowth of bad bacteria, which may enter your bloodstream or contribute to health issues.

Conditions such as gum disease (periodontitis) occur not only in the mouth, they may impact other parts of your body, such as your heart.

Oral health and health conditions

Diabetes

People with type 2 diabetes have a higher chance of having gum disease.

Severe gum disease may make it more difficult for people to manage their blood sugar levels.

Heart disease

Studies have found a connection between gum disease and heart disease. Inflammation and bacteria from periodontal disease may increase your risk of heart attack, stroke, and clogged arteries.

While more research is needed to discover the exact reasons for this connection, existing studies have made it clear that poor oral health may contribute to cardiovascular disease.

Respiratory infection

Bacteria from your mouth may be inhaled into your lungs, which may cause respiratory infections such as pneumonia.

Pregnancy complications

Poor oral health during pregnancy has been connected to premature birth, low birth weight, gestational diabetes, and pre-eclampsia.

Inflammation caused by gum disease may interfere with fetal development, so it’s important to take good care of your oral health during this time.

Oral health and social satisfaction

The health of your mouth may also have an impact on your social wellbeing. Missing teeth, tooth decay, or bad breath may affect your self-confidence.

If you’re experiencing pain from dental issues, this may interrupt your ability to eat, sleep, and speak.

The takeaway

Oral health is more than how your teeth and smile look. It plays an important role in your overall physical health, mental health, and social situations.

It’s vital to understand the connection between your mouth and your body and maintain regular dental check-ups.