There is growing scientific evidence that shows a connection between our oral health and our overall health and well-being. Oral health can affect the way we eat, speak, and smile. It can also influence the way we feel about ourselves and impact our school, work, and social lives.

Dental health issues are often considered separate from other health conditions, but a growing body of clinical research shows a closer interrelation. This research demonstrates that poor oral hygiene and health may contribute to a host of health conditions, while proper oral health care may benefit overall health and wellness.

Oral Health and the Body

Much research has been done on the connection between poor oral health and other health conditions and diseases. Poor oral health may contribute to various diseases and conditions, including:

High Blood Pressure:
Delaying dental care in early adulthood has been linked to increased risk of high blood pressure. Studies have also shown that people with gum disease may have a harder time controlling their blood pressure with medication than those with good oral health.

Diabetes:
Diabetics have an increased risk of developing gum disease, and gum disease may make it harder for diabetics to manage blood glucose levels.

Obesity:
Brushing teeth too seldomly, only once a day for instance, has been connected to the development of obesity. A diet high in sugary drinks and food, processed foods, and refined carbohydrates can increase the risk of obesity and tooth decay in children and adults.

Respiratory Health:
Poor oral health and high levels of oral bacteria are two conditions linked to an increased risk of pneumonia and other respiratory infections and diseases.

Dementia:
Research has shown that poor oral health is associated with an increased risk of developing brain impairment and dementia.

Pregnancy Issues:
Pregnant women with gum disease have shown an increased risk of preterm birth and babies with low birth weight.

Gut Health:
An imbalance of bacteria in the gut is related to periodontal disease (gum disease). There is also a connection between inflammatory gut conditions and gum disease.

While poor oral health can contribute to many conditions, on the flip side, many poor health conditions and diseases can cause mouth, teeth, and gum issues. According to the National Institutes of Health, a majority of all common diseases have oral symptoms. Here are some of the conditions, diseases, and lifestyle risk factors that have been associated with poor oral hygiene:

• Diabetes
• HIV/AIDS
• Osteoporosis
• Alzheimer’s disease
• Arthritis
• Heart disease
• Stroke
• Emphysema
• Hepatitis C
• Liver conditions
• Obesity
• Certain autoimmune conditions
• Eating disorders
• Sleep disorders, including sleep apnea
• Medications (decongestants, antihistamines, painkillers, diuretics, and antidepressants)

Can Perimenopause Cause Mouth Issues?

Perimenopause, menopause, and oral health are also related. Women going through perimenopause or menopause experience hormonal changes that reduce saliva production. This can lead to dry mouth, oral yeast infections, bacterial infections, and cavities.

Hormonal changes also reduce bone density and can cause gums to recede. Perimenopause gum problems further increase the risk of developing cavities as well as periodontal disease.

Common Oral Health Facts

Normally, the body’s natural defenses, along with good dental practices—like daily brushing and flossing—keep harmful bacteria away. However, without proper oral hygiene, bacteria can sometimes reach levels that may lead to mouth infections. The most common problems adults develop due to inadequate oral health include:

• Untreated cavities
• Gum disease
• Tooth loss
• Oral cancer

Scheduling regular checkups with our dental team can help you prevent these health problems and maintain good oral health. When you visit Newtown Dentistry for your regular dental checkup, an oral cancer screening is always part of the exam. Because early detection is crucial to treatment, our dentists check for signs of cancer or precancerous conditions.

Oral Hygiene Tips

Consistent preventive dental care can slow down the progression of oral and gum diseases, helping lower the risks associated with many other diseases and health problems. Here are some daily tips for practicing good oral hygiene:

• Brush at least twice a day for two minutes with a soft brush and fluoride toothpaste.
• Floss daily.
• Rinse with mouthwash to remove food particles left after brushing and flossing.
• Eat a healthy diet high in fruits and vegetables and low in sugary foods and drinks.
• Replace your toothbrush every three to four months.
• Schedule regular dental checkups and cleanings.
• Avoid tobacco use.
• Reduce alcohol consumption.
• Use protective mouth equipment when playing sports and other leisure activities.

In fact, many patients have been motivated to contact their primary care physician after visiting Newtown and have been diagnosed with newly found underlying health issues, such as high blood pressure, that are connected to their oral health. Call us for an appointment so we can help you maintain optimum oral and overall health.