You would expect poor oral hygiene habits to lead to gum disease, but you wouldn’t be thinking about pneumonia, right? The effect of oral health on your body, and vice versa, is more connected to your overall well-being than you might think. Let’s dive into six unexpected conditions linked to oral health.
- Eating Disorders
What comes out of your mouth (and not just the stuff going in), can have an effect on oral health. Eating disorders can wreak havoc on your dental health. They can cause a range of conditions, from bad breath and a dry mouth, to ulcers and even fractured teeth.
- Cardiovascular Disease
Believe it or not, your heart might feel the effects of your oral hygiene. Inflammation and infections caused by oral germs can contribute to heart disease, clogged arteries, and strokes.
- Pneumonia
Germs from your mouth can make their way into your lungs, causing pneumonia and other respiratory issues.
- Pregnancy and Birth Complications
Expecting mothers, listen up! Gum disease has been linked to premature (early) birth and low birth weight. Maintaining good oral health during pregnancy is crucial not just for you, but also for your baby’s health.
- Cancer Risks
There’s a link between gum disease and an increased risk of lung, pancreatic, and head and neck cancers. While more research is needed, this potential connection adds another reason to keep your gums in top shape.
- Diabetes
Diabetes and gum disease have a two-way relationship. Diabetes can make it harder for your body to fight infections, including those in your gums. In turn, serious gum disease can make it more difficult to control blood sugar levels, making diabetes management more challenging.
Conclusion
Your mouth is more than just a smile – it’s a gateway to your overall health. From protecting your heart to protecting your teeth, good oral hygiene plays a vital role in keeping your whole body healthy.
References
https://www.nationaleatingdisorders.org/dental-complications-of-eating-disorders/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK219661/
https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/adult-health/in-depth/dental/art-20047475
https://academic.oup.com/epirev/article/39/1/49/3752486?login=false
