Connection between oral health and overall wellbeing
Most of us think of brushing and flossing as ways to keep our teeth clean and breath fresh. But good oral hygiene is about much more than just a nice smile. Research shows that oral health is closely linked to your overall wellbeing, affecting everything from your heart and lungs to your mental health.
Let’s explore how your mouth reflects the health of your body, and how caring for your teeth and gums can help prevent more serious health issues in the long run.
How Oral Health Impacts the Body
Your mouth is the gateway to the rest of your body. It’s filled with bacteria, most of them harmless, but when oral hygiene is poor, harmful bacteria can grow out of control. These bacteria can enter the bloodstream and travel to other areas of the body, potentially contributing to a range of health conditions.
Some of the most well-researched links include:
- Heart Disease
Some research suggests that heart disease might be linked to the inflammation and infections that oral germs can cause.
2. Diabetes
People with diabetes are more prone to gum disease. In turn, severe gum disease can make it harder to control blood sugar levels, creating a two-way relationship between the two conditions.
3. Respiratory Conditions
Bacteria from the mouth can be inhaled into the lungs, especially in older adults, increasing the risk of pneumonia and other respiratory issues.
4. Pregnancy Complications
Gum disease has been linked to premature birth and low birth weight. Hormonal changes during pregnancy can also make gums more prone to inflammation and bleeding.
Mental Health and Oral Hygiene
The connection between oral health and mental wellbeing goes both ways. People with depression or anxiety may neglect their oral hygiene, leading to increased risk of gum disease, tooth decay and pain. At the same time, poor oral health can affect self-esteem and social confidence, especially if tooth loss or bad breath becomes an issue.
Signs That Oral Health May Be Affecting Overall Health
It’s important to pay attention to symptoms that could signal a deeper problem. These include:
- Bleeding or swollen gums
- Persistent bad breath
- Loose teeth
- Receding gums
- Toothaches or jaw pain
If you notice any of these signs, speak to your dentist. Catching gum disease early can reduce your risk of complications elsewhere in the body.
Tips for Maintaining Good Oral and General Health
Good oral care habits support your whole-body health. Here are some easy but effective ways to look after both:
- Brush teeth for two minutes, twice a day, with fluoride toothpaste
- Clean between teeth daily using floss picks or interdental brushes
- Use a mouthguard at night if you grind your teeth
- Avoid smoking and limit alcohol intake
- Did you know 90% of bad breath comes from a dirty tongue? Cleaning your tongue is a great way to reduce bad breath.
- Visit the dentist regularly, even if your teeth feel fine
Support From DenTek® Oral Care
DenTek® offers a range of products that make daily dental care easier and more effective, supporting better oral and overall health:
- Floss Picks help remove plaque and food debris from between teeth, where toothbrushes can’t reach
- Interdental Brushes are ideal for wider gaps and cleaning around dental work
- Dental Guards can prevent damage from night-time grinding
- Repair Kits provide the temporary replacement or a loose filling, or re-attachment of a cap, crown or inlay
- Orabrush Tongue Cleaner has been modelled on a Surgeon’s scrub brush to reach deep inside your mouth to help loosen and lift away the bacteria that leads to bad breath
Final Thoughts
Oral health is a key part of your overall wellbeing. By taking care of your teeth and gums every day, you’re also helping to protect your heart, lungs, blood sugar and mental health. Simple habits and the right products can make a big difference over time.
Your mouth is more than just a smile. It’s a mirror of your health.
References
https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/adult-health/in-depth/dental/art-20047475
https://www.bhf.org.uk/informationsupport/heart-matters-magazine/research/gum-disease-heart-health
https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/gum-disease/
https://www.nhs.uk/pregnancy/related-conditions/common-symptoms/bleeding-gums/
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/bad-breath/symptoms-causes/syc-20350922