Oral health plays a vital role in one’s overall wellbeing. Poor oral health can cause several diseases, including gum disease, tooth decay, and bad breath.

However, did you know that poor oral health can also lead to several life-threatening diseases? Here we discuss seven diseases linked to poor oral health that can greatly impact your overall health.

1. Heart Disease

Several studies have found a link between heart disease and poor oral health. Bacteria present in the mouth due to poor oral health can enter the bloodstream and travel to the heart, causing inflammation and leading to cardiovascular disease.

Therefore, poor oral health has a direct impact on heart health and increases the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and other cardiovascular diseases.

2. Dementia

Research has found that poor oral health is related to memory loss and dementia.

The bacteria which cause gum disease can eventually enter the brain through nerve endings in the head and spread to the brain, killing brain cells and leading to memory loss. Therefore, maintaining good oral health can reduce the risk of developing dementia.

3. Respiratory Infections

Respiratory infections, such as pneumonia, can be caused by the inhalation of bacteria present in the mouth due to poor oral health. The bacteria can travel from the mouth to the lungs and cause infections.

Therefore, maintaining good oral hygiene can decrease the risk of respiratory infections.

4. Diabetes

Diabetes and poor oral health have a two-way relationship. Poor oral hygiene can lead to gum disease, and gum disease can exacerbate diabetes by affecting blood sugar control.

Additionally, people with diabetes are more susceptible to oral infections, which can lead to more severe cases of gum disease.

5. Cancer

Poor oral health is also linked to an increased risk of cancer. The bacteria present in the mouth due to poor oral hygiene can cause chronic inflammation, which can lead to cancerous cell growth.

Therefore, maintaining good oral hygiene can help reduce the risk of developing cancer.

6. Kidney Disease

Studies have found a close link between chronic kidney disease and poor oral health. The toxins and bacteria present in the mouth due to poor oral hygiene can enter the bloodstream and cause damage to the kidneys.

Therefore, maintaining good oral hygiene can reduce the risk of kidney disease.

7. Pregnancy Complications

Pregnant women with poor oral health are more likely to have complications during pregnancy, such as premature birth and low birth weight. The inflammation caused by gum disease can also induce labor and lead to premature birth.

Additionally, the bacteria present in the mouth can cross the placenta and affect the fetus’s health. Therefore, maintaining good oral hygiene during pregnancy is of utmost importance.

Conclusion

Poor oral health can lead to several life-threatening diseases. Therefore, it is essential to maintain good oral hygiene to reduce the risk of developing these diseases.

Brushing teeth twice a day, flossing, and regular dental checkups are crucial for maintaining good oral health.