Medical science now recognizes a link between good oral health and the overall health of the body. The health of the body is threatened when bad bacteria grow to the extent that they outnumber the good bacteria in the mouth. Healthy gums and strong bones will serve as a barrier to the travel of bacteria into the body.
Bad Oral Bacteria
However, bad oral bacteria can travel directly from the mouth to the lungs; there is not any barrier to prevent this from happening. Bacteria that enters the lungs can cause increased symptoms of respiratory problems and even pneumonia. Emphysema patients can also experience worsening symptoms. A study published by the American Academy of Periodontology reveals that people with poor periodontal health had more respiratory diseases that people with healthy lungs.
Gum Disease
Gum disease and advanced periodontal disease cause oral tissues to fail in blocking bacteria from leaking into the bloodstream. This problem occurs because of approximately 500 microorganisms in the mouth that weaken bone structures and gums. These bacteria will break into the bloodstream causing body-wide inflammation.
How This Affects the Heart
Hardening of the arteries is caused by inflammation. Heart specialists know that a lot of plaque build-up in the arteries is really caused by an inflammatory process. Bacteria are carried by the bloodstream to the heart, and the bacteria can find any damaged area and create inflammation. The result can be an infection of the heart’s inner lining, according to the Mayo Clinic. The American Heart Association has identified other cardiovascular conditions that oral bacteria are responsible for.
Inflammation
In some instances, the periodontal attachment of the teeth may be impacted by inflammation. The alveolar bone may also be affected. These conditions can create an infection that could affect the cardiovascular and renal systems.
Prevention Is the Key
Poor oral hygiene and the lack of dental preventative care, namely regular cleanings, leads to the mouth being overrun by bacteria. Tooth decay is also a primary culprit in the growth of bacteria. Gum disease and advanced periodontal disease allow bacteria to become a serious health problem.
Brush, Floss and Watch for the Signs
It is impossible to overemphasize the importance of twice daily brushing and flossing. It is equally important to pay attention to the condition of the mouth watching for signs of receding and bleeding gums. A tooth that becomes sensitive to hot or cold beverages should be examined by a dentist since this may be a sign of a cavity that needs to be treated. As mentioned earlier, a teeth cleaning every six months is going to help prevent oral infections.