How does oral health affect overall health, and vice versa? -Alima Begum
The mouth is the gateway to the body, and many health conditions can be linked to
poor oral health.
Some may argue that awareness of oral health is extremely undermined ,although
poor oral health is the cause of many significant health concerns, such as,
Cardiovascular health, respiratory health, digestive health, pregnancy complications,
cancer, and so on.
Whole health and well-being are intimately correlated with oral health. While having
good dental health can help with general health and a higher quality of life, having
poor oral health can have a substantial, detrimental impact on the entire body.
The state of one's mouth and overall health are strongly related and can influence
one another significantly.
Systemic health concerns can also have an impact on oral health.
Bad dental health can cause a variety of health issues.
An increased risk of cardiovascular disease has been associated with poor oral
hygiene, particularly gum disease. Gum disease is brought on by bacteria that can
enter the bloodstream and contribute to artery inflammation, which can result in
heart disease, stroke, and other cardiovascular issues. There is a link between
cardiovascular health and oral health, according to research. Gum disease, which
can induce inflammation in the body, is a result of poor dental health.
Heart disease and stroke may be accelerated by this inflammation.
Periodontal disease, a serious form of gum disease, has been linked in studies to a
higher risk of heart disease and stroke.
The bacteria that cause gum disease can enter the bloodstream and contribute to
the buildup of plaque in the arteries, leading to blockages and other cardiovascular
problems.
Periodontal diseases are mainly the result of infections and inflammation of
the gums and bone that surround and support the teeth. In its early stage,
called gingivitis, the gums can become swollen and red, and they may bleed.
In its more serious form, called periodontitis, the gums can pull away from the
tooth, bone can be lost, and the teeth may loosen or even fall out. Periodontal
disease is mostly seen in adults. Periodontal disease and tooth decay are the
two biggest threats to dental health.1
Poor oral health has been linked to an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. The
exact mechanism behind this association is still under investigation, but it is believed
that the bacteria and inflammation associated with gum disease may contribute to
the development of cardiovascular problems.
1
https://www.cdc.gov/oralhealth/conditions/periodontal-disease.html
According to research, oral bacteria can pass past the gums and into the
bloodstream, where they can then induce inflammation in many parts of the body,
including the blood vessels. Atherosclerosis, which is the accumulation of plaque in
the arteries that can cause heart attack and stroke, can occur as a result of this
inflammation.
A direct link between cardiovascular health and oral health has also been shown by
the discovery of the gum disease-causing bacteria in arterial plaque.
It's also crucial to remember that poor dental health is frequently linked to other
cardiovascular disease risk factors including smoking and a bad diet. As a result,
practising proper dental hygiene and getting treatment for gum disease may be
crucial for both your oral health and your cardiovascular system as a whole.
Researchers have found a number of potential ways that poor dental health may
impair cardiovascular health, however the exact mechanisms by which this occurs
are not fully understood
Poor oral hygiene can lead to gum disease, which is characterised by inflammation
and bacterial infection in the gums. This inflammation can spread to other parts of
the body, including the arteries, and contribute to the development of
atherosclerosis, or the buildup of plaque in the arteries.
Atherosclerosis develops slowly as cholesterol, fat, blood cells and other
substances in your blood form plaque. When the plaque builds up, it causes your
arteries to narrow. This reduces the supply of oxygen-rich blood to tissues of vital
organs in the body.2
The bacteria that cause gum disease can also enter the bloodstream and travel to
other parts of the body, where they can cause inflammation and damage to the
blood vessels. This can increase the risk of cardiovascular disease.
Inflammation in the blood vessels can also increase the likelihood of blood clots
forming. Blood clots can block the flow of blood to the heart or brain, leading to a
heart attack or stroke.
Furthermore, poor oral health has been linked to dysfunction of the endothelium,
which is the inner lining of blood vessels. Endothelial dysfunction can impair the
ability of blood vessels to relax and dilate, leading to increased blood pressure and
reduced blood flow.
2
https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/atherosclerosis
Moreover, oral bacteria can be inhaled into the lungs, potentially leading to
pneumonia and other respiratory illnesses. Respiratory health can also be impacted
by poor oral health. Inhaling bacteria from the mouth, and bacteria from gum
disease, into the lungs has the potential to cause respiratory diseases like
pneumonia.
Poor oral health can have a variety of effects on respiratory health.
When you have poor dental health, the bacteria in your mouth can aspirate into your
lungs, where they can cause lung infections. This may lead to pneumonia or
bronchitis.
Conditions like asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) can be
made more likely by poor oral health. Breathing might become challenging due to
inflammation in the airways brought on by oral bacteria.
Chronic inflammation in the body, particularly the respiratory system, can also be
brought on by poor oral health. Asthma, COPD, and lung cancer are a few respiratory
disorders that can be exacerbated by this persistent inflammation.
Dry mouth, a condition in which there is insufficient saliva to keep the mouth wet, can
also result from poor oral health. While saliva aids in clearing debris and bacteria
from the mouth and throat, this may increase the risk of respiratory infections.
Overall, maintaining good oral hygiene habits like twice-day brushing, daily flossing,
and routine dental visits can help to mitigate these detrimental effects on lung
health.
The risk of aspiration, which occurs when food, drink, or saliva enters the lungs
rather than the oesophagus, can also rise as a result of poor oral health. Pneumonia
and other respiratory illnesses can result from aspiration.
Chronic coughing brought on by poor oral health increases the risk of respiratory
infections by irritating the airways.
Furthermore, Digestion can be impacted by poor oral health. It can be challenging to
chew food properly when teeth are missing or broken, which can cause digestive
problems. digestive well-being Since the digestive system begins in the mouth, poor
oral health might have an impact on it. Bacteria can accumulate on the teeth if they
are not adequately cleaned, which can cause digestive issues including irritable
bowel syndrome (IBS).
Many detrimental consequences on digestive health might result from poor oral
health. Here are a few ways that gut health and oral health are related:
Chewing Difficulties: Dental issues like tooth decay, gum disease, and missing teeth
can make it challenging to correctly chew food. This can result in swallowing bigger
food pieces, which might strain the digestive tract and result in digestive problems.
Decreased Enzyme Production: Digestion is aided by the digestive enzymes found in
saliva, which also aid in the digestion of meals. Saliva production can be decreased
by poor dental health, which can result in digestive issues such bloating,
constipation, and diarrhoea.
Mouth infections and inflammation can result from poor dental health. The digestive
system is just one organ where these illnesses might expand to. Chronic digestive
issues including Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) and Crohn's disease can develop as
a result of inflammation.
The nutrients in meals are essential for the digestive system to work properly.
Malnutrition and other health issues can result from the body having trouble
absorbing these nutrients due to poor oral health.
Poor dental hygiene can result in lost teeth or tooth rot, which can make it
challenging to effectively chew food. Larger food particles entering the digestive
tract as a result of inadequate chewing might result in gastrointestinal issues such
bloating, gas, and constipation.
Saliva plays a crucial role in the digestive process by breaking down food and
neutralising harmful bacteria in the mouth. Poor oral health can reduce saliva
production, leading to difficulty in breaking down food and an increase in harmful
bacteria in the digestive tract.
Also, Inadequate oral hygiene can result in an accumulation of dangerous germs in
the mouth, which can then enter the digestive system. Infections, inflammation, and
other digestive problems can be brought on by these bacteria as they move through
the digestive tract.
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) 3 is a disorder in which stomach acid
rushes back into the oesophagus, causing heartburn and other symptoms. Bad oral
health can also contribute to GERD. When the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) does
not work properly, which can be brought on by infection or inflammation in the
mouth, GERD can develop.
3
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/gerd/symptoms-causes/syc-20361940
In order to support healthy digestion and general health, it is crucial to maintain
proper oral hygiene.
Preterm birth and low birth weight have been linked to poor dental health throughout
pregnancy4. In addition, Infants born prematurely and with low birth weights have
been associated to poor oral health. Pregnant ladies must take good care of their
oral health.
A higher risk of dementia has been associated with poor dental health 5. According
to research, gum disease-causing bacteria can enter the brain and aid in the onset of
Alzheimer's disease. pregnancy complications: Premature birth and low birth weight
may be more likely in pregnant women with periodontal disease.
On the other hand, here are some ways in which overall health can affect oral health:
Poor oral health can have several adverse effects on pregnancy, both for the mother
and the developing baby.
For instance, poor dental hygiene can cause gum disease, which has been
associated with low birth weight and preterm birth. Gum disease-causing bacteria
can enter the bloodstream and travel to the uterus, where they might cause the
release of hormones that cause labour to start too soon.
Dental decay-Due to hormonal changes that might damage tooth enamel, pregnancy
can increase the risk of tooth decay. Infection brought on by untreated tooth decay
can result in premature labour.
Nutritional Deficiencies-A woman's ability to eat correctly may be affected by her oral
health, which may result in nutritional deficiencies that could be harmful to the
unborn child.
Morning Sickness-Due to the stomach acid that is regurgitated, pregnant women
who frequently vomit and have morning sickness may have a higher risk of tooth
erosion and decay.
4
https://mdperio.com/blog/gingivitis-and-low-birth-weight/#:~:text=Overall%2C%20yes%2C%20there%
20is%20a,low%2Dbirth%2Dweight%20babies.
5
https://www.nia.nih.gov/news/tooth-loss-older-adults-linked-higher-risk-dementia#:~:text=Also%2C%2
0poor%20oral%20hygiene%20might,the%20brain%2C%20leading%20to%20dementia.
Gestational Diabetes-Gestational diabetes is a form of diabetes that develops during
pregnancy. Poor dental health has also been connected to this condition.
People with diabetes are more susceptible to gum disease 6, and gum disease can
make it harder to control blood sugar levels.
Diabetes patients who have poor oral health may find it more difficult to control their
blood sugar levels. Inflammation brought on by gum disease can affect the entire
body, making it more difficult for the body to utilise insulin as intended.
Studies have revealed a two-way relationship between diabetes and poor oral health,
especially gum disease, which has been related to an increased chance of
developing the disease.
Periodontitis, also known as gum disease, is a persistent inflammatory disorder that
affects the tissues supporting and encircling the teeth 7. Gum disease-related
inflammation can increase insulin resistance, which is a major risk factor for the
development of diabetes.
Gum disease is brought on by bacteria that can enter the circulation and start an
immunological reaction that results in systemic inflammation. Moreover, this may be
a factor in insulin resistance and other diabetes-related problems.
Those with diabetes who have poor dental health may have a harder time managing
their blood sugar levels. The body may release more stress hormones when there is
an infection or inflammation in the mouth, which can cause blood sugar levels to
rise.
Gum disease and diabetes both have a number of risk factors in common, including
smoking, eating poorly, and being overweight. These elements may contribute to
both illnesses' increased risk and help to explain why they are frequently observed
together.
6. Some studies have suggested a link between poor oral health and cognitive
decline in older adults.8
There is evidence to suggest that poor oral health can have a negative impact on
cognitive function in several ways.
6
https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/diabetes/overview/preventing-problems/gum-disease-de
ntal-problems#:~:text=Gum%20disease%20link%2C%20also%20called,progress%20from%20mild%2
0to%20severe.
7
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/periodontitis/symptoms-causes/syc-20354473#:~:text
=Periodontitis%20(per%2De%2Do%2Ddon,but%20can%20usually%20be%20prevented.
8
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7332063/
First off, periodontitis and other mouth diseases that produce chronic inflammation
have been related to cognitive decline, including deteriorated memory and attention.
The creation of cytokines, which can breach the blood-brain barrier and harm brain
cells, is sparked by the inflammatory response.
Second, systemic disorders that have been connected to cognitive decline, such as
diabetes and cardiovascular disease, are more likely to develop as a result of poor
dental health.
Lastly, a lack of vital vitamins and minerals necessary for optimum cognitive
function may result from inadequate diet and the inability to chew and eat food
adequately.
Finally, it is important to note that cognitive decline may also impact oral health due
to changes in hygiene habits and forgetfulness in maintaining oral care.
Overall, maintaining good oral hygiene habits and seeking prompt treatment for any
oral health issues may help reduce the risk of cognitive decline associated with poor
oral health.
Oral cancer risk can rise as a result of neglecting oral hygiene.
In conclusion, maintaining good dental health is crucial for general health and
wellbeing. To prevent and treat any oral health issues, it is crucial to practise
excellent oral hygiene, which includes routine brushing and flossing.
Poor oral health can increase the risk of developing oral cancer in several ways:
Periodontal disease, sometimes referred to as gum disease, is a persistent bacterial
infection that can harm the gums and the bones that support the teeth. Untreated
gum disease can lead to persistent inflammation and irritation, both of which raise
the possibility of developing oral cancer.9
Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection; HPV is a common sexually transmitted virus
that can lead to mouth and throat cancer. Oral cancer may result from HPV infection,
which can be increased by poor oral hygiene.10
9
https://acsjournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1002/cncr.33438#:~:text=After%20examining%20
22%20to%2028,increased%20risk%20of%20gastric%20cancer.
10
https://www.cdc.gov/cancer/hpv/basic_info/hpv_oropharyngeal.htm#:~:text=HPV%20can%20infect%2
0the%20mouth,cancers%20in%20the%20United%20States.
Use of tobacco products - Smoking cigarettes, cigars, and other tobacco products
significantly increases the chance of developing mouth cancer. Smoking can cause
chronic mouth inflammation and irritation, which can lead to malignant changes in
the tissues lining the mouth and throat.11
Alcohol use: Excessive alcohol use increases the risk of mouth cancer. Alcohol
consumption increases the risk of developing cancer by damaging the DNA in the
cells lining the mouth and throat.
Oral cancer risk is increased by diets low in fruits and vegetables. Important
nutrients and antioxidants included in fruits and vegetables aid in cell protection and
lower the chance of malignant alterations.
Certain drugs can make you feel dry mouthed, which raises your chance of getting
cavities and other oral health issues.
HIV/AIDS and other immune system-depleting illnesses can make it more difficult for
the body to fight against infections of many kinds, including oral infections.
In conclusion, maintaining good dental health will make you feel better about your
overall health. It's crucial to keep up basic oral hygiene practises like routinely
brushing and flossing, eating a nutritious diet, and visiting the dentist for checkups
and cleanings on a regular basis. Managing any systemic health issues and using
medications as prescribed by a healthcare professional are also essential.
11
https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/oral-cancer-and-tobacco#:~:text=Ch
ewing%20tobacco%20and%20snuff%20can,Or%20the%20cancer%20may%20erythroplakia.