In addition to the issue of toothbrushes at school, it would have helped know that poor oral health is associated with diseases – and also serious. The connection between oral health and general health has been known for a long time, but not much discussed. Now it attracts attention. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), oral diseases affect almost 3.7 billion people. According to 2021 data, the untreated tooth waste is the most common state of health. And more studies show that the bacteria of the mouth, similar to their intestine, play a role in general oral health. Dr. Ockert Bekker, dentist at Bekker Dental and aesthetics, emphasizes that the neglect of oral hygiene can lead to serious health problems, including diabetes, heart disease, respiratory infections and a connection with mental health problems. Here is what you can know – and how you can protect yourself.
The mouth microbioma
The mouth houses a diverse microbiome that includes over 700 taxa (or groups) of bacteria. Of course, these microorganisms colonize the oral cavity and thrive in their warm, wet environment, which is rich in nutrients from food and saliva. This ecosystem includes both beneficial and harmful bacteria. Useful bacteria such as streptococcus Salivarius and Lactobacillus species play a crucial role in maintaining oral health. They help breakdown food, produce antimicrobial substances that inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria and contribute to a balanced oral environment. In addition, they help digestion and support a healthy intestinal microbiome. Conversely, harmful bacteria such as streptococcus mutans and porphyromonas -Givival are associated with dental problems. S. Mutans feed on sugar and produce acids that undermine tooth enamel and lead to cavities. P. Gingivalis is associated with gum infections and systemic inflammation. These can contribute to diseases such as diabetes and heart disease.
How oral health is associated with diseases
“Many people do not recognize that their oral health is a mirror of their general health,” says Dr. Bekker. “For example, gum diseases are not only about poor breath or bleeding gums – it can be connected to diabetes complications. It is important to note that gum diseases do not cause diabetes themselves, but it can make it worse. And uncontrolled diabetes can recharge the parodontal problems,” he adds.
Studies show that gum diseases can double or even triple the risk of cardiovascular diseases, while people with diabetes and poor oral health are often struggling with the control of blood sugar. In South Africa, where almost 4.5 million people with diabetes life, the improvement of oral hygiene could significantly influence general health. Respiratory diseases, a main cause of hospital stays in the country, can also deteriorate if harmful bacteria from infected gums enter the lungs. The psychological effects of poor oral health are equally concerned: people who suffer from tooth loss and decay have a higher risk of mental illnesses.
The link to microbiome disease
The connection between oral health and intestinal health is another area of growing concern. The mouth and intestine play an important role in digestion, immunity and general well -being. Poor or hygiene can disturb the intestinal microbioma, which leads to systemic inflammation, indigestion and chronic diseases. Harmful bacteria from the mouth, especially in gum diseases, can fly through the bloodstream and settle in the intestine. This could cause inflammation associated with diseases such as Crohn’s disease, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and a leaky intestinal syndrome.
The current consensus is that there is a connection (often referred to as oral microbial axis). There are continuous studies in which it is examined how important this connection is for human diseases. This area is relatively new and expands our understanding of it. “The bacteria in her mouth don’t just stay there,” explains Dr. Bekker. “If you have gums, these harmful bacteria can enter your digestive system, which leads to an imbalance in the intestinal microbioma. This can contribute to a number of problems, flatulence and poor digestion to serious inflammatory diseases.”
The digestive process begins in the mouth, and problems such as tooth waste, gum diseases or missing teeth can hinder the correct chewing and influence digestion and nutrient absorption. Bad chewing habits were associated with acid reflux, flatulence and slow intestinal engine. Some harmful oral bacteria such as fusobacterium nucleatum were even associated with colon cancer and inflammatory intestinal disorders.
Read more: Handbook against electric toothbrushes: What is better?
The conditions associated with poor oral hygiene
“It is important to note that all of these conditions work bidirectionally and may not be the causal agent, but part of a larger process in the human body,” explains Dr. Bekker. Translation: If you neglect your oral hygiene, you can enter into these disease processes. And if you have these disease processes, your oral health can suffer.
Heart disease
Bad oral hygiene, especially gum diseases (periodontitis), was associated with an increased risk of heart disease. The inflammation caused by gum diseases can contribute to building plaque in the arteries and the risk of heart attack and stroke increases.
diabetes
Gum diseases can make it more difficult to check the blood sugar level and increase the risk of developing or deteriorating diabetes. Likewise, people with diabetes are more susceptible to infections such as gum diseases and create a cycle that is difficult to break.
Respiratory infections
Bad tooth hygiene can lead to bad bacteria in the mouth. These could be inhaled in the lungs, which may cause pneumonia or other respiratory infections. This is particularly for people with endangered immune systems or underlying lung conditions.
osteoporosis
Osteoporosis, a disease in which bones become weak and brittle, can affect the jawbone, which leads to tooth loss. Bad tooth hygiene can worsen the effects of osteoporosis on oral health. This could lead to a strong bone loss in the jaw.
Alzheimer’s disease
Studies have pointed out that gum diseases and the bacteria involved in periodontitis can play a role in the development or progression of Alzheimer’s disease. The bacteria from the mouth can get into the bloodstream and possibly influence the brain.
Cancer
Bad oral hygiene is associated with an increased risk of certain cancer, including oral, neck and pancreatic cancer. Chronic inflammation in the gums and the presence of harmful bacteria can contribute to these diseases.
Gastrointestinal disorders
Oral infections or untreated dental problems can cause bacteria to be swallowed. This can possibly cause stomach infections or other stomach problems. The bacteria can also reach the intestine and influence intestinal health.
Read more: 7 signs that you have a risk of gum diseases – and what to do is
How quickly does oral health affect general health?
“The intestinal mouth connection can take time to manifest itself in the event of diseases. The time frame can vary depending on the individual health, lifestyle and oral hygiene and the extent,” says Dr. Bekker. In general, it can take months or even years before poor oral hygiene influences the intestine and can lead to problems such as digestive problems, inflammation or infections. BUT! “The opposite is also true,” warns Dr. Bekker. “As soon as it is affected, it can take a long time to solve these problems and restore intestinal health, which in turn contributes to general health and well -being.” For example, untreated gum diseases can insert harmful bacteria into the bloodstream. Finally, this can affect the intestine and lead to diseases such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (Gerd) or an inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). However, the exact time that develops these problems can deviate from person to person. The key to preventing this connection to cause health problems is to maintain good oral hygiene, e.g. B. regularly brushes and dental floss, a balanced diet and a regular visit to your dentist for examinations.
