Your oral health can reveal a great deal about your overall health. Recent articles have emphasised the connection between oral hygiene and general physical well-being. Studies have examined how poor dental care can lead to diseases that result in the premature loss of permanent teeth.
At Camden Dental Practice, we prioritise conducting thorough examinations of every patient’s mouth. Our skilled dental hygienist in London is adept at identifying potential issues early during these assessments. This focus is particularly important in light of research highlighting the physical and mental impacts on older adults who experience tooth loss.
Tooth Loss in Older people and the affect on health
Researchers at University College London recently published a study suggesting that early tooth loss can be an indicator of overall health. Their findings indicate that this type of tooth loss may signal potential physical and mental decline later in life. American studies have also shown that tooth loss in seniors can impact memory, vision, and walking speed. While factors such as smoking, drinking, education levels, and income were considered, they found tooth loss to be particularly significant.
The study highlighted that older adults without natural teeth tended to walk more slowly compared to those with some remaining teeth. It’s crucial for everyone, especially older adults, to maintain good oral hygiene by brushing with toothpaste to keep their teeth in the best condition possible.
Other Consequences of Poor Dental Health Include:
Fear of Dementia
Wonder how your dental health is associated with your mental health? According to findings published in Behavioral Brain Functions, infections found in gums cause inflammation in the brain that results in death of brain cells, which can lead to Alzheimer’s and Dementia.
The Threat of Heart Disease and Stroke
Bacteria in your gums can enter the bloodstream and clog your arteries, increasing the risk of a heart attack. This condition can escalate to a stroke, especially if the clogged carotid artery struggles to deliver blood to the brain, potentially leading to a sudden stroke. This is why individuals with periodontal disease are more likely to experience congested arteries.
Exacerbate Respiratory Problems
The risks of periodontal disease extend beyond oral health and can also impact your overall health. Bacteria from your gums can enter the bloodstream and reach your respiratory system, potentially weakening your lungs. This can be particularly harmful for individuals already suffering from pneumonia or acute bronchitis. According to a Journal of Periodontology, a link was found between gum diseases and increased cases of respiratory problems.
A consultation with your dentist will help you overcome the risk of poor respiratory health.
Erectile and Fertility Problem
Bacteria from the gums can travel to the genital area, inflaming blood vessels and restricting blood flow. As a result, men with periodontal disease are seven times more likely to experience erectile dysfunction compared to those who maintain good oral hygiene.
For women, research from the European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology indicates that those with gum disease may take longer to conceive than those without dental infections.
Diabetes Complications
Diabetes patients are vulnerable to infection. For which, it is seen that people who are affected with periodontal disease also have diabetes, where the combination at adverse situation may lead to tooth loss. It is like a continuous cycle where people with diabetes are more at risk to suffer from gum diseases and periodontal disease on the other hand will make it difficult for you to check the blood sugar level.
Premature Birth of Babies
Infections within the body of an expectant mother can contribute to premature births. Babies born early often face challenges such as breathing difficulties and an increased risk of infection. The mouth is one area where infections can occur, and these oral health issues may play a role in the risk of early delivery.
Using a non-alcoholic mouthwash can help reduce oral infections. It can potentially lower the risk of a premature delivery and promotebetter health for both the mother and the baby. Taking steps to maintain good oral hygiene is essential during pregnancy for overall well-being.
Increased Occurrence of Cancer
Research shows that men with gum diseases are 30% at more risk to get blood cancer, 49% to develop kidney cancer and 54% to get affected with pancreatic cancer.
At our Camden Dental Practice we know that focusing on news about oral health is very important! We know that the oral-systemic link is very real and its exploration long overdue.
We will continue educating ourselves and exploring what we can learn about the mouth as it relates to overall health assessments.
