What You Need to Know about the Oral-Systemic Connection
Several scientific studies have been conducted about the oral-systemic connection that have suggested a link between our oral health and our overall health. Many dental and medical professionals now agree that oral and overall health should not be considered separate aspects but thought of as more of a symbiotic relationship.
Specific Health Concerns that May be Caused or Exacerbated by Poor Oral Health
Periodontal (gum) disease, tooth decay, and the bacteria that promote poor health have been directly connected to such systemic complications as heart and lung disease, as well as diabetes. In the field of dentistry, most professionals are aware of this relationship and have implemented screening procedures to obtain a thorough health history from patients and provide education on the risks poor oral health poses to your whole body.
Some studies have found that proper treatment for dental issues, especially periodontal disease, lowers the patient’s chances of developing other health concerns.
Link to Heart Disease
Understanding the development and progression of oral bacteria helps explain how problems that begin in the gums contribute to heart disease and other cardiovascular complications.
While some bacteria live naturally in the mouth and are beneficial, sugary snacks and a lack of effective dental hygiene practices allow more harmful bacteria to form a layer of plaque on teeth and gums. This plaque hardens into tartar in as little as 24 hours and left unchecked, can continue to spread below the gums.
Over time, inflammation and infection in the soft tissues of the mouth allow the bacteria to travel into the bloodstream or be inhaled. Should bacteria and plaque build-up in the blood vessels, it can lead to coronary heart disease, heart attacks, strokes, and more.
Seeing your dentist for regular exams and cleanings helps preserve the health of your smile. Your oral health provider can also detect and treat any existing issues to significantly reduce your chances of developing a more serious condition.
Link to Diabetes
If you have diabetes, you are at an increased risk of periodontal disease, and having gum disease negatively impacts diabetes and can increase the chances of complications.
The combination of a lowered immune system and poor blood sugar control can lead to a destructive cycle if vigilant oral hygiene is not maintained. Improved metabolic control has been documented when people with diabetes with gum disease receive periodontal treatment.
Other Systemic Connections
Other connections between oral and systemic health also exist. Inhaled oral bacteria can cause respiratory infections. If the number of germs is not reduced, it is easy to understand how they can travel to and infect the lungs.
Additionally, there is research that shows treating oral health issues, particularly periodontal disease, lowers the risk of having pre-term deliveries and underweight babies. The connection works both ways; without adequate calcium supplementation, many pregnant women have an increased chance of developing gingivitis (early gum disease) and cavities.
Dietary counseling and proper dental treatment during pregnancy decrease the chances of delivering your baby too early.
What to Do?
Brushing your teeth TWICE per, flossing daily, and visiting your dentist twice yearly, can greatly improve your oral and lower your chances of developing other health conditions. Preventative care and treatment also help lower health care costs, since prevention is typically far less expensive than the cure.
Call the Fort Wayne Dental Office of Dr. Timothy S. Berger and Dr. Jon Robison
If you are looking for a dentist in Fort Wayne or any of the surrounding communities, and are ready to take control of your oral and overall health, contact us today!