Why Oral Health Matters for Your Overall Health
The Connection Between Oral and Systemic Health
Your mouth is not just a separate part of your body. It’s a gateway to your overall health. Research has shown that oral health problems can increase your risk of developing a variety of health conditions, including:
- Cardiovascular disease
- Diabetes
- Stroke
- Arthritis
- Kidney disease
- Dementia
Periodontal Disease: A Major Culprit
Periodontal disease, an infection of the gums and bone that support the teeth, is a major culprit in the link between oral and systemic health. Bacteria from periodontal disease can enter the bloodstream and travel to other parts of the body, causing inflammation and damage.
Inflammation: The Common Thread
Inflammation is a major factor in many chronic diseases, including periodontal disease and heart disease. When your gums are inflamed, your body releases chemicals that can damage your blood vessels and increase your risk of blood clots.
Bacteria: A Silent Threat
Bacteria from your mouth can also directly infect other parts of your body. For example, oral bacteria have been linked to endocarditis, a serious infection of the heart valves.
The Barriers to Integration
Despite the clear connection between oral and systemic health, there are still barriers to integrating oral and primary health care. These barriers include:
- Fragmented payment systems
- Lack of training for both dentists and physicians
- Incompatible electronic health records
- Lack of infrastructure, such as dental offices in medical clinics
The Benefits of Integration
Integrating oral and primary care can improve your overall health by:
- Identifying and treating oral health problems that can affect your systemic health
- Reducing your risk of developing chronic diseases
- Improving your quality of life
The Future of Dentistry
Dentistry is changing to reflect the growing understanding of the connection between oral and systemic health. Dentists are now being trained to recognize and treat oral health problems that can affect your overall health. They are also working more closely with physicians to provide integrated care.
How to Improve Your Oral Health
There are many things you can do to improve your oral health and reduce your risk of developing systemic health problems, including:
- Brush your teeth twice a day
- Floss daily
- See your dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings
- Avoid sugary drinks and foods
- Quit smoking
Key Points
- Oral health is an important part of overall health.
- Periodontal disease is a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease and other systemic health problems.
- Inflammation and bacteria from your mouth can damage other parts of your body.
- There are barriers to integrating oral and primary health care, but these are being overcome.
- Integrating oral and primary care can improve your overall health and quality of life.