The hidden dangers of poor oral health
Many people with chronic issues often forget about their oral health. We assume it only impacts our teeth, but via the gums and the bloodstream, oral problems can affect our entire body in serious ways.
Effects on your body
Chronic inflammation and the immune system
One of the main risks of poor oral health is the development of chronic inflammation. Gum disease like gingivitis and periodontitis lead to inflammation in the mouth, which can contribute to an ongoing immune response throughout the entire body. This inflammation is linked to a variety of chronic conditions such as diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis and even cognitive decline. Long term immune activation can make systemic inflammation worse, making it harder for the body to regulate itself and eventually damaging the immune system. 1 2
Heart disease and strokes
Oral bacteria can also play a role in heart disease and strokes. When gum infections become severe, bacteria can enter the bloodstream, leading to atherosclerosis via plaque buildup in the arteries. This can increase the risk of heart attacks and strokes by narrowing blood vessels. Gum disease also leads to elevated levels of CRP which is the main marker of systemic inflammation. 1 3
Diabetes
For people with diabetes or insulin resistance, the connection to oral health is particularly concerning. Gum disease can worsen blood sugar control and make existing insulin issues worse. The aforementioned chronic inflammation can likewise also make blood sugar control worse which in turn weakems the already weakened immune system even further, causing a vicious cycle of oral and systemic issues. 1
Alzheimers and dementia
There have also been studies into Alzheimers which are linked to oral bacteria, especially the bacteria Porphyromonas gingivalis has been found in the brains of Alzheimers patients. This opened up a new branch of research which increasingly finds more evidence of oral health playing a role in multiple neurodegenerative diseases triggered by inflammation, bacteria or immune reactions. 4
Pregnancy complications
Another serious factor to consider are pregnancy complications. Premature birth and low birth weight have been linked to oral health issues in some studies. 1
How do we fix it?
Teeth
The biggest issue with oral health are your teeth. If you have infected teeth or active caries, bacteria can more easily enter your bloodstream and poison you systemically. Definitely get these issues fixed if you have them.
Tonsils
Tonsil stones are somewhat common. Many people aren’t aware that they have them. They usually also cause bad breath but that’s not a necessity. There are many ways to DIY clean your tonsils, have a look around the internet and consider giving it a try.
Gums
The last part is oral care in general. Aside from brushing teeth, you should also floss. Easy to say right? But a more convenient and in fact more effective way is water flossing. There are multiple brands of oral water flossers such as the “Waterpik” which clean bacteria and leftover pieces of food, not only out from between your teeth but also in between your gums. This reduces inflammation in general and can have a positive effect on your health that you might have not been aware of before.