Your oral health offers clues about your overall health; often times, problems in your mouth can affect the rest of your body. Your mouth is full of bacteria! Although most of the bacteria is harmless and kept under control by your body’s natural defenses and good oral hygiene, harmful bacteria can sometimes grow out of control. This can lead to oral infections, such as tooth decay and gum disease. As a result, you may need dental procedures and/or medications that reduce saliva flow, disrupt the normal balance of bacteria in your mouth or breach the mouth’s normal protective barriers. This can make it easier for bacteria to enter your bloodstream and cause or contribute to different illnesses.Complications with your oral health can affect or contribute to several health conditions, including:
Endocarditis. Gum disease and dental procedures that your gums may allow bacteria to enter your bloodstream. If you have a weak immune system or a damaged heart valve, this can cause infection in other parts of the body, such as an infection of the inner lining of the heart (endocarditis).
Cardiovascular Disease. Some research suggests that heart disease, clogged arteries and stroke may be linked to oral bacteria, possibly due to chronic inflammation from periodontis, a severe form of gum disease.
Pregnancy and Birth: Gum disease has been linked to premature birth and low birth weight.
Diabetes. Diabetes reduces the body’s resistance to infection-putting the gums at risk. In addition, people who have inadequate blood sugar control may develop more frequent and severe infections of the gums and the bone that holds teeth in place, and they may lose more teeth than do people who have good blood sugar control.
HIV/AIDS. Oral problems, such as painful mucosal lesions, are common in people who have HIV/AIDS.
Osteoporosis. Osteoporosis, which causes bones to become weak and brittle, may be associated with periodontal bone loss and tooth loss.
Alzheimer’s disease. Tooth loss before age 35 may be a risk factor Alzheimer’s disease.
Other conditions. Other conditions that may be linked to oral health include Sjogren’s syndrome, an immune system disorder, and eating disorders.[1]
How can I protect myself? First, you should practice good oral hygiene every day! You should brush your teeth at least twice per day and floss nightly. Secondly, make certain to tell your dentist if you’re taking any medications or have had any changes in your overall health. Lastly, watch for signs and symptoms of oral disease and contact your dentist immediately if a problem arises.
HealthChoice of Michigan has partnered with Golden Dental to offer dental coverage to participants. Coverage is cost effective and can help keep you healthy! For more details, call 1-800-WELL NOW.
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