Healthy Living: Oral health: Consider it a window to your overall health

Your oral health is more important than you may realize. Get the facts about how the health of your mouth, teeth and gums may affect your general health.

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

Your mouth is teaming with bacteria, most of them harmless. Normally, the body’s natural defenses and good oral health care can keep these bacteria under control. However, harmful bacteria can sometimes grow out of control and cause oral infections, such as tooth decay and gum disease. In addition, some medications and/or radiation treatments can reduce saliva flow
that can make it easier for bacteria to enter your bloodstream.

What conditions may be linked to oral health?

Endocarditis: Oral bacteria that may enter your bloodstream can attack the inner lining of the heart.

Cardiovascular disease: Some research suggests that heart disease, clogged arteries and stroke may be linked to oral bacteria, possibly due to chronic inflammation from periodontitis, gum disease.

Pregnancy and birth: Gum disease has been linked to premature birth and low birth weight.

Diabetes: Reduces the body’s resistance to fight infection. People who have inadequate blood sugar control may develop more frequent infections of the gums and the bone.

HIV/AIDS: Oral problems, such as painful mouth lesions, are common in people who have HIV/AIDS.
Osteoporosis: Medications taken for this disease may cause osteonecrosis of the jaw.

Alzheimer’s disease: Tooth loss before age 35 may be a risk factor for Alzheimer’s disease.

Sjogren’s syndrome: An immune system disorder results in severe dry mouth putting the patient at risk for decay and periodontal disease.

Eating disorders: Such as bulimia and anorexia can cause severe damage and decay.

What are the signs and symptoms of oral disease?

Bleeding gums, tooth pain, bad breath, receding gums, shifting teeth, and lumps, bumps or any discoloration of the tissue that changes in size and doesn’t go away.

How can I protect my oral health? Brush your teeth at least twice a day.

Submitted by Dr. Ana Maya Adkins.