Do Dental Problems Affect The Rest Of The Body? Part 1

What’s the connection between oral health and overall health?

Your mouth is external to the body and teems with bacteria — mostly harmless. But your mouth is the opening to your digestive and respiratory tracts, and some of these bacteria can cause disease.

Normally the body’s natural defences and good oral health care, such as daily cleaning and flossing, keep bacteria under control. However, without proper oral hygiene, bacteria can reach levels that might cause oral infections, such as tooth decay and gum disease.

Also, certain medications — such as decongestants, antihistamines, painkillers, diuretics and antidepressants — can reduce saliva flow leading to dry mouth. Saliva washes away food and neutralises acids produced by bacteria in the mouth, helping to protect you from microbes that multiply and lead to disease.

Studies suggest that oral bacteria and the inflammation associated with a severe form of gum disease (periodontitis) might play a role in some diseases. And certain diseases, such as diabetes and HIV/AIDS can lower the body’s resistance to infection, making oral health problems more severe.

What conditions can be linked to oral health?

Your oral health might contribute to various diseases and conditions, including:

• Endocarditis – This infection of the inner lining of your heart chambers or valves (endocardium) typically occurs when bacteria or other germs from another part of your body, such as your mouth, spread through your bloodstream and attach to certain areas in your heart.
• Cardiovascular disease – Although the connection is not fully understood, some research suggests that heart disease, clogged arteries and stroke might be linked to the inflammation and infections that oral bacteria can cause.
• Pregnancy and birth complications. Periodontitis has been linked to premature birth and low birth weight.
• Pneumonia – Certain bacteria in your mouth can be pulled into your lungs, causing pneumonia and other respiratory diseases.