Chew on This: Good Oral Hygiene Leads to Better Overall Health

Posted November 09, 2023 by Michael Tan, M.D., MACP, FIDSA, Assistant Medical Director

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We’re all taught from a young age that brushing and flossing your pearly whites helps prevent cavities, bad breath, stained teeth, and gum disease. But, did you know that good dental hygiene habits have a positive impact on your overall health? 

It’s true. The mouth harbors up to 700 species of bacteria, second only to the gut. So when it’s not cared for properly, the mouth can negatively affect other body systems. 

Poor dental hygiene not only leads to painful gum disease, tooth decay and an unsightly smile, but it’s also been linked to heart disease, stroke, pneumonia, as well as pregnancy and childbirth complications. Some research even suggests that people with serious gum disease have a higher risk of dying from a heart attack or stroke. And poor dental hygiene increasing your risk of blood stream infections that can have serious consequences.
Find out how taking care of your oral health is an investment in your overall health.

What is periodontal disease?

Poor dental hygiene can lead to periodontal disease, a serious gum infection that damages both the soft tissue and bones that support your teeth. This can cause teeth to become loose or fall out. Warning signs of periodontal disease include:

• Red or swollen gums
• Tender, receding or bleeding gums
• Pain when chewing
• Loose teeth
• Sensitive teeth, especially to hot/cold foods or liquids
• Bad breath
• Dry mouth
• Toothaches

When bacteria living in your mouth get out of control and multiply, they can spread into your bloodstream and throughout your body. Some of the factors that put people at higher risk of developing oral health-related conditions include an unhealthy diet (especially one high in sugar), tobacco use, excessive alcohol consumption and stress. 

Conditions associated with poor dental health

While tooth decay and gingivitis (mild gum disease) alone may not cause the following conditions, research shows that poor oral health contributes to them.

• Heart Disease, including coronary artery disease, heart failure, inflammation of the tissues of the heart (endocarditis) and irregular heartbeat (cardiac arrhythmia)
• Pregnancy and birth complications, such as premature birth, low birth weight and dangerously high blood pressure (preeclampsia)
• Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias 
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Lung issues, such as pneumonia

On the flipside, the following chronic conditions can lead to problems with the mouth and jaw:

• Osteoporosis leads to bone weakness and loss, which can cause instability in the jawbone.
• Diabetes causes high blood sugar that can contribute to gum disease.
• AIDS is caused by a virus, HIV, which attacks the immune system, making it harder for the body to fight off infections. Painful mouth sores are common in people with HIV or AIDS.
• Fibromyalgia is often linked to dry mouth, which affects salivary production. Saliva helps control the number of bacteria in the mouth.
• Some forms of cancer.

Tips for protecting your oral health

Practicing healthy dental habits and regularly visiting the dentist are key to self-care and self-esteem. Follow these healthy habits to protect your oral health—and overall health: 

 

• Brush your teeth twice daily with a fluoride toothpaste and soft bristle brush or electronic toothbrush for at least 2 minutes. 
• Floss at least once a day to remove plaque buildup between teeth and at the gum line.
• Use an antiseptic mouthwash to remove food left behind after brushing and flossing.
• Visit your dentist twice a year for regular imaging, checkups, oral cancer screenings and professional cleanings.
• Limit the number of sugary foods and drinks you consume.
• Be aware of medications you take that cause dry mouth, which can lead to decreased saliva production. 
• Manage chronic health conditions, such as diabetes and osteoporosis.
• Don’t use tobacco.

There’s a close relationship between oral health and the health of your body. Practicing good dental hygiene habits are not just about a bright smile, they’re also a matter of your health!