Dental Care and Illness

The link between poor dental hygiene, heart health, and other illnesses is a fascinating and intricate subject. 

The connection largely revolves around the concept of inflammation and the way infections in the mouth can affect other parts of the body.

Here’s a breakdown of the connections and suggestions for minimising risks and potentially reversing damage.

Poor Dental Hygiene and Heart Health

1. **Gum Disease and Cardiovascular Disease**: Research suggests a link between periodontal (gum) disease and an increased risk of heart disease. The bacteria causing gum disease can enter the bloodstream, causing atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries) by contributing to the buildup of plaque in the arteries. This condition can lead to an increased risk of heart attacks and strokes.

2. **Endocarditis**: This is an infection of the inner lining of your heart chambers or valves (endocardium). It typically occurs when bacteria or other germs from another part of your body, such as your mouth, spread through your bloodstream and attach to damaged areas in your heart. Poor dental health increases the risk of these bacteria entering the bloodstream.

Dental Health and Other Illnesses

1. **Diabetes**: People with diabetes are more susceptible to gum disease, which in turn can make diabetes harder to control. Infections can increase blood sugar levels, which can lead to an increase in the period of time when the body functions with a high blood sugar, thus promoting diabetes complications.

2. **Respiratory Diseases**: Bacteria in the mouth from infected teeth and swollen gums can be breathed into the lungs or travel there through the bloodstream. These bacteria can lead to respiratory infections, pneumonia, acute bronchitis, and even chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

3. **Pregnancy Complications**: Periodontitis has been linked to premature birth and low birth weight. The theory is that oral bacteria release toxins, which reach the placenta through the mother's bloodstream and interfere with the development of the fetus.

4. **Manage Conditions**: If you have conditions like diabetes, managing them effectively can lessen the risk of developing gum disease and its complications.

5. **Prompt Treatment**: If you have signs of gum disease (bleeding, swollen gums, bad breath that won't go away), seeking prompt dental care can prevent the condition from worsening and impacting other areas of your health.

Reversing the damage caused by poor dental hygiene depends on the severity of the problem. Early stages of gum disease (gingivitis) can often be reversed with good oral hygiene and professional dental cleanings.

More advanced gum disease (periodontitis) may require more extensive treatment, such as deep cleaning (scaling and root planing), medications, or even surgery.

The key takeaway is that maintaining good oral hygiene and regular dental visits not only keeps your smile bright but also plays a crucial role in your overall health. 

Addressing dental health issues promptly can minimize their impact on conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory diseases, underscoring the interconnectedness of oral health and general well-being.

Consult a dental practitioner who practices natural care for best guidance - there are very few of them so please do your research and ask for recommendations.

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