Chew on this: 5 ways your oral health is connected to your overall health

We all know it’s important to take care of your teeth so that they look good. But did you know that good oral health is also connected to your overall well-being? There’s a whole range of positive health benefits that your body will thank you for if you’re on top of your dental hygiene, including the prevention of some potentially serious health conditions. Let’s brush away the mystery and learn about the connection between our smiles and our health.

A microbiome that’s a real mouthful

Did you know that there are almost as many bacteria in your mouth as people on Earth? Up to six billion bacteria create a complex oral microbiome that contains both good and bad bacteria.¹ This microbiome is made up of microscopic workers, or microorganisms, that support smooth daily operations of your body, like keeping your mouth clean (thanks, friends!). But there are some bad bacteria in the bunch that can wreak havoc without proper oral hygiene, leading to a variety of health problems. Sometimes it’s aesthetic problems or undesirable attributes like bad breath, but the impact of poor dental health doesn’t stop there. Bacteria leads to the formation of plaque, which is a sticky film that constantly forms on your teeth.² If this plaque goes untreated, it can contribute to a host of other issues that can impact your overall well-being.

1. Heartfelt connections between your oral and cardiovascular health

Once plaque has taken hold and created gum disease, it branches out across the body. Researchers suspect that the bacteria present in gum disease can trigger inflammation in the heart’s vessels and infect the heart valves, contributing to cardiovascular problems.³ The same bacteria that form in the mouth have been found in blockages of the heart’s arteries, meaning people with gum disease may be at nearly twice the risk for heart attack or stroke.⁴

2. The sugary link between dental health and diabetes

If you have diabetes, taking care of your oral health becomes even more important. If the sugar level in your blood is high, it will also be high in your saliva. The glucose from the sugar feeds harmful bacteria that produce plaque and cause cavities.⁵ Diabetes reduces your body's ability to fight infection, which not only makes gum disease more likely, but it can be more severe and take longer to heal.⁶ Gum disease can also make it harder to control blood sugar levels, creating a frustrating cycle. By maintaining good oral hygiene, you can help manage diabetes and improve your overall health.

3. Breathe in, brush out

Your oral health can also affect your lungs and respiratory system. Bacteria can be inhaled into your lungs, which is nothing to panic about. It happens all the time, and a healthy immune system is well equipped to prevent you from getting sick. However, when your immune system is compromised from oral health issues, your lung tissue can become irritated and inflamed. This can potentially cause pneumonia, especially in older adults. Poor oral health can even worsen existing respiratory conditions like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), making it harder for those who have the disease to breathe.⁷

4. Poor oral health can deliver complications for pregnant women

Paying attention to your oral health during pregnancy is essential for both mother and baby. Hormonal changes from pregnancy can make women more prone to gum disease and cavities. Nearly 75% of pregnant women have gingivitis, an early-stage gum disease that makes the gums red and swollen. Gingivitis is linked to preterm birth and low birth weight.⁸ Cavities can also create problems. Mothers with untreated cavities are more likely to have children with cavities.⁹ Maintaining good oral hygiene habits and regular dental check-ups are crucial for the health of both mom and baby.

5. The mind-body connection between dental and mental health

There’s a relationship that goes both ways when it comes to your oral health and your mental health. When your teeth aren’t in the best shape, they may embarrass you, reducing your quality of life. For example, those with poor oral health may try to avoid situations where they’d be eating or drinking around others. This can lead to lower self-esteem, social anxiety, and increase the risk of developing depression.¹⁰

On the other hand, if you aren’t feeling your best, your teeth can feel the effects too. Mental health conditions can make it difficult for people to manage their oral health. Those suffering from depression might be too tired or disinterested in their self-care to practice daily dental hygiene and attend dentist appointments. Research also suggests that poor oral health is associated with an increased risk of cognitive decline, such as Alzheimer's disease due to chronic inflammation caused by gum disease.¹¹

It’s not all so scary. Here’s how to take care of your oral health to help improve your overall health. 

So, the good news is there are simple steps you can take to improve your oral health and help prevent many of the consequences of poor dental health. Incorporating these habits into your lifestyle will help you to feel happy, healthy, and ready to show off that bright smile!

• Brush your teeth twice a day with a soft-bristle toothbrush (set a timer for 2-minutes).

• Floss once a day.

• Use fluoride toothpaste.

• Rinse and gargle with antiseptic mouthwash.

• See a dentist regularly to get a checkup and cleaning every six months or as recommended. If you have dental insurance, using an in-network dentist may help you save the most.

• Pay attention to oral pain and other warning signs, such as toothaches, bad breath, and sensitivity to hot and cold foods, and see a dentist immediately if you’re experiencing any of these symptoms.