The Link Between Good Oral Health and Overall Health

The Link Between Good Oral Health and Overall Health

The Link Between Good Oral Health and Overall Health

The Link Between Good Oral Health and Overall Health

December 22, 2022

Boss Dental Care

It is best to understand that oral and overall health are not separate entities. After all, your mouth is the main access point for the oxygen and nutrition you need to survive. So, good oral health is essential to your health and well-being. Separating the two causes lead many to assume that dental care is less important. 

 

There is a strong link between good oral health and overall health. Poor oral health can affect your physical and mental well-being. It can also increase the risk of certain medical conditions. Maintaining good oral health can help improve your health and prevent various health problems.

 

 

Reasons Why There Is a Close Relationship Between Oral and Overall Health

 

 

Diabetes

 

 

People with diabetes are more prone to gum disease. Furthermore, poor oral health can make controlling your blood sugar levels more challenging. Good oral hygiene can help improve blood sugar control in people with diabetes. 

 

Studies link gum disease to an increased risk of developing diabetes and to complications, such as nerve damage and kidney disease. Maintaining good oral hygiene can help reduce the risk of these complications.

 

 

Cardiovascular Health

 

 

Poor oral hygiene can cause bacteria in the mouth to enter the bloodstream and contribute to the buildup of plaque in the arteries. The plaque can narrow the arteries and increase the heart attack or stroke risk. So, maintaining good oral hygiene can help reduce the risk of heart disease.

 

 

Pregnancy and Birth Complications

 

 

Studies suggest pregnant women with gum disease are more likely to have preterm or low birth weight babies. A good oral hygiene routine during pregnancy can help reduce the risk of complications. Since pregnancy hormones can increase the risk of gum disease, pregnant women must maintain good oral hygiene and visit the dentist regularly.

 

 

Dementia

 

 

Studies suggest that people with poor oral health may have a higher risk of developing dementia. Healthcare professionals link gum disease to an increased risk of developing Alzheimer's disease and poor oral hygiene to cognitive decline in older adults. Maintaining good oral hygiene and regular dental visits can help reduce the risk of developing dementia.

 

 

Other Health Problems

 

 

There is a link between poor oral health and an increased risk of other health problems. These include respiratory infections, kidney disease, and osteoporosis. Respiratory infections, such as pneumonia, can result from bacteria from the mouth entering the lungs. 
 

Gum disease can also increase the risk of kidney disease, as bacteria can enter the bloodstream and affect the kidneys. Osteoporosis, a condition that weakens the bones, can result from poor oral health. That is because people with gum disease may have lower bone density. 

 

 

Conclusion

 

 

Maintaining good oral health involves brushing the teeth at least twice a day, flossing daily, and visiting the dentist regularly for cleanings and checkups. It is also best to eat a healthy diet low in sugar and to avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, as these can contribute to poor oral health

 

For more on oral health, visit Boss Dental Care at our Corpus Christi, Texas office. Call 361-245-5400 to schedule an appointment today.

 

https://health.clevelandclinic.org/oral-health-body-connection/

https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/features/oral-health-affects-wellness

Corpus Christi Dentist