gum disease · oral concerns · The Mouth Body Connection ·Nov 28, 2023

Your Mouth and Body are Connected Studies Show

Your mouth is a window into your body. The mouth can show signs of general infection, side effects to medications, nutritional deficiencies, signs of systemic diseases, and more. By having good oral hygiene and visiting your dental professional regularly you are taking care of your entire body!

Here are some examples of where research has identified a correlation between oral and general health.

Heart Disease
Diabetes
Pneumonia
Arthritis
Preterm birth / low birth weight
Cancer
Neurodegenerative diseases
Obesity
Osteoporosis

Periodontitis activates the immune and inflammatory system, which results in systemic inflammation. With this correlation to systemic inflammation, we know that this has a negative effect on the overall body. Let’s take a closer look at some of these diseases.

Heart Disease: Several studies have shown that periodontal disease may increase the risk of heart disease, with inflammation being responsible for this association. Periodontal disease can also exacerbate existing heart conditions. (AAP, 2022)

Respiratory Disease: Research has found that bacteria associated with periodontal disease can be aspirated into the lungs and contribute to respiratory diseases such as pneumonia. (AAP, 2022)

Alzheimer’s Disease: Studies have found a connection between bacteria associated with periodontal disease and the progression of Alzheimer’s disease. The bacteria may be able to travel to the brain, contributing to the development of Alzheimer’s disease. (AAP, 2022)

www.tepe.com/share/search-for-information/discover-how-oral-health-effects-your-body