Most people are aware that poor oral hygiene
can lead to dental caries and gum disease, but what most don’t know about is
the mouth and body connection. Not practicing good oral hygiene causes more
than bad breath and can lead to some serious health issues.
According to the Mayo Clinic, researchers
from NYU, or the New York University, found a direct link between Alzheimer’s
disease and gum inflammation. Although there were only 152 participants in the
study that took place in a 20-year period in Denmark, it was discovered that low
cognitive function was related to people who suffered from gum inflammation.
The bacterium, porphyromonas gingivalis, was present in those who suffered from
Alzheimer’s disease, but not in those who didn’t. In a recent study, it was
also discovered that gum disease bacteria could move from the gums to the brain
either from the nerves that connect from the roots of the teeth to the brain or
through the blood. In other words, if you have gums that bleed, the bacteria
will enter your blood stream every time you brush, floss or eat.
Pancreatic cancer has also being linked to
periodontal disease thanks to a study conducted at Harvard. What the health
researchers discovered was that men, who had recent tooth loss, were more susceptible
to pancreatic cancer. It was also suggested that there is a direct link between
carcinogens caused by gum disease and pancreatic cancer. Although this theory is still being
researched, it is just another reason to practice good oral hygiene that
includes regular checkups with your dentist.
Your mouth is loaded with bacteria, which
could lead to heart disease. People who do not brush and floss regularly could
be at risk of heart disease. Because the bacteria from your mouth can enter
your bloodstream, it can interrupt the blood flow to your heart increasing your
risk of blood clots and heart attacks.
Other health conditions that can occur
because of poor oral hygiene include endocarditis, an infection of your hearts
inner lining, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, osteoporosis, and HIV/AIDS.
Women who are pregnant and suffer from gum disease are also more likely to give
birth prematurely or have low weight babies.
The best way to have
a healthy mouth and body connection is to practice good oral hygiene habits
that include brushing twice and flossing once each day, eating a healthy diet
and seeing your dentist at least twice a year. Schedule your dental appointment
today.
