If the eyes are windows to the soul, our mouths are windows to our overall wellbeing.
Severe problems with our gums have been scientifically linked to all manner of conditions, from diabetes and heart disease to strokes, bacterial lung infections and problems with pregnancy. Inflammation that is otherwise hidden inside our bodies can be seen in our gums.
Oral health: A window to your overall health
Your oral health is more important than you might know. Discover how the health of your mouth, teeth and gums can affect your overall health.
Did you know that your mouth provides us clues about your overall health?
What’s the connection between our mouth health and overall health?
Like other body areas, your mouths are teeming with bacteria — which is primarily harmless. But your mouth is the first point of your digestive and respiratory tracts, and some of these bacteria can cause disease and conditions.
Usually, the body’s defences and good oral hygiene, such as daily brushing and flossing, will keep this bacteria under control. However, without care, bacteria can reach levels that may lead to oral infections, such as tooth decay and gum disease.
Studies have shown that bacteria in the mouth and the inflammation associated with a severe form of periodontal disease (gum disease) have been linked to other diseases. And certain diseases, like diabetes and HIV/AIDS, can reduce the body’s resistance, making oral health problems more severe.
What are the conditions which can be linked to our mouths?
Bad oral health might contribute to other conditions and diseases, including:
-Endocarditis. This is an infection of the inner lining of your heart chambers or valves (endocardium) that can occur when bacteria or germs from other areas of your body, for example, the mouth, feed into the bloodstream and attach to specific regions of your heart.
-Cardiovascular disease. Although the connection is not fully understood, research suggests that heart disease, clogged arteries and stroke might be linked to the same bacteria which causes inflammation and infections in gums.
-Pregnancy and birth complications. Gum disease has been linked to premature birth and low birth weight.
-Pneumonia. The same bacteria in your mouth can be breathed into your lungs, causing pneumonia and other respiratory diseases.
Certain conditions also might affect your mouth, including:
-Diabetes. Gum disease can be more frequent and severe among people who have diabetes.
Research shows that people with gum disease find controlling their blood sugar levels challenging. Regular oral hygiene care can improve diabetes control.
-Osteoporosis. This bone-weakening condition is linked with tooth loss and bone loss in the jaw. Certain drugs which are used to treat osteoporosis carry a slight risk of damaging the jaw bone.
-Alzheimer’s disease. These are links to dementia and Alzheimer’s as periodontal disease progresses.
Other conditions linked to gum disease include rheumatoid arthritis, some cancers and immune system disorder that can cause dry mouth (Sjogren’s syndrome).
Please ensure you tell your dentist about your medications and changes in your health, especially if you’ve recently been ill or have chronic conditions, such as diabetes.
How can I protect my oral health?
To keep good oral health, practice good oral hygiene daily.
-Brush your teeth for 2-minutes at least twice a day
-Ideally, use an electric toothbrush and stannous fluoride toothpaste.
-Use TEPE bottle brushes and clean between your teeth
-Try to limit sugary food and drinks.
-Replace your toothbrush regularly as a worn-out brush will not clean well.
-Book your regular dental checkups and cleanings.
-Avoid smoking!
Contact our lovely and helpful reception team, who can book you in with our dentists and put your mind at rest.
