Oral Hygiene and the Health of the Body
Years ago, a physician who suspected a patient had heart disease would probably not refer him to a dentist. But times have changed! The past 5 to 10 years have seen a growing body of research linking the health of your mouth to the overall health of your body. According to the American Dental Association, 40 percent of people with gum disease also have a chronic health condition.
What’s feeding the link?
Taking improper care of your mouth results in bacterial growth, which causes inflammation that can cause problems for other body systems if left unchecked.
Several factors can affect oral health—it’s not just about brushing and flossing. The health of your mouth and teeth is affected by diet (SUGAR ), stress, sleep, poor digestion, and deficiencies in minerals and vitamins.
As previously mentioned, oral health has been related to several other health concerns.
Diabetes. Diabetes impairs blood flow through the vessels. When the gums don’t receive sufficient blood flow, they become weak and vulnerable to infection. If diabetes is not properly managed, high sugar will promote bacterial growth.
Heart disease. Periodontal disease, which is really just chronic bacterial infection of the gums, is connected to an increased risk of heart attack and stroke. Inflammation is a risk factor for heart disease. It’s possible that bacteria from the mouth travels into the bloodstream and adds to the buildup of plaque in the arteries. While there isn’t a direct cause-and-effect relationship, both periodontal disease and heart disease share common risk factors including smoking and diabetes.
Arthritis. In a recent small study, bacteria from the mouth was found in synovial (joint) fluid in people with knee arthritis. For some participants in these studies, there was a genetic match between the bacteria in the mouth and bacteria found in the joint fluid! Whoa. Bacteria travels well.
The best way to prevent problems from developing is by maintaining healthy dental hygiene habits:
Eat a balanced diet without excessive sweets. As far back as the 1940s, researchers like Weston A. Price observed the role of nutrition in dental and physical health. Price was one of the first to conclude that “foods of commerce,” such as flour, sugar, and processed food products cause nutritional deficiencies that result in dental and general health problems.
Don’t smoke or use smokeless tobacco products.
Brush at least twice daily—after breakfast and before bedtime. Floss daily. Brush or scrape the tongue.
Schedule regular dental visits, usually every six months.
With these tips and a focus on healthy habits, you can ensure your teeth and body will stay healthy well into your golden years.