3 Surprising Connections Between Oral Health and Wellness

by | Oct 11, 2024 | Self Care, Wellness

October Celebrates Dental Hygiene Month

When most people think about wellness, they often focus on nutrition, exercise, and mental health. But one crucial aspect of well-being that often gets overlooked is oral health. October is National Dental Hygiene Month, making it the perfect time to explore the surprising ways your oral health impacts your overall well-being, including nutrition, socialization, and participation in societal norms. You might be surprised to find out that research shows a profound connection to poor oral health and conditions such as dementia, diabetes, and heart disease.

The Mouth-Body Connection

Alzheimer’s Dementia

Emerging research suggests a connection between gum disease and an increased risk of Alzheimer’s dementia (AD) and other forms of dementia. The bacteria associated with gum disease may contribute to brain inflammation. In a recent study found that mice that were orally exposed to gum disease bacteria developed neuroinflammation, neurodegeneration, and senile plaque formation that were similar to AD in humans. Control animals did not show this pathology. Furthermore, they identified the presence of a periodontal pathogen/product within the neurons in the brains of experimental mice, suggesting that chronic oral bacterial infection or the presence of bacteria/product in the brain may influence the development of senile plaque and hence chronic bacterial infection may be a risk factor for AD.

Diabetes

OF all the associations between oral health and disease, the one with the most evidence is gum disease and diabetes. People with diabetes are more susceptible to gum disease due to high blood sugar levels. Conversely, untreated gum disease can make it more difficult to control blood sugar, creating a harmful cycle. Researchers have yet to understand exactly why, but in one review published in 2017, researchers wrote that the systemic inflammation caused by periodontal disease may worsen the body’s ability to signal for and respond to insulin. In another study, scientists found that diabetics who were treated for periodontal disease saw their overall health care costs decrease by 12 to 14 percent.

Heart Disease

Gum disease (periodontitis) has been linked to an increased risk of heart disease and stroke. Bacteria from the mouth can enter the bloodstream, causing inflammation that may contribute to arterial plaque buildup. In a report published in 2020, an international team of experts concluded that there is a significant link between periodontitis and heart attack, stroke, plaque buildup in the arteries, and other cardiovascular conditions. While researchers haven’t determined how poor oral health might lead to worse heart health, some evidence suggests that periodontal bacteria from the mouth may travel to the arteries in vascular disease patients, potentially playing a role in the development of the disease.

Good Oral Health = Better Overall Wellness

Good Oral Health = Better Overall Wellness

Taking care of your teeth and gums isn’t just about a bright smile—it’s about protecting your entire body. Here are some key tips to maintain optimal oral health:

Brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste

Floss daily to remove plaque and bacteria between teeth

Schedule regular dental check-ups and cleanings

Eat a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals

Stay hydrated to support saliva production, which helps fight bacteria

Avoid smoking and excessive sugar intake

Seek Support When Needed

At Morpheus Wellness, we understand that true well-being is holistic. By taking care of your oral health, you’re making a proactive choice to improve your overall quality of life. This October, let’s celebrate Dental Hygiene Month by committing to better oral care—your body will thank you!

If someone you know is not able to maintain their oral health due to physical, sensory, mental, or emotional challenges – Contact Morpheus Wellness today to learn more about how we can support your health from head to toe!

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