Can Bad Teeth Make You Have Health Problems?

Oral health goes beyond the health of your teeth, gums and mouth. The mouth is the main entryway into the body, so bad teeth can have negative effects on your whole body. Bacteria from the mouth can make its way to the bloodstream and cause inflammation and infection everywhere. Here are some of the most common health problems that can be caused by bad teeth.

• Cancer. Poor oral health practices like smoking and using tobacco products can lead to throat and oral cancers, but other kinds of cancer have also been linked to gum disease. People with bad teeth have a higher risk of developing pancreatic cancer, kidney cancer and blood cancers.
• Cardiovascular disease. The same bacteria that cause periodontal disease (inflammation of the gums) can cause arteries to build up plaque and harden. This leads to atherosclerosis, which causes heart blockages and blood flow problems, increasing the likelihood of hypertension, stroke and heart attack.
• Dementia. Substances released from infected gums can kill brain cells and result to memory loss. Studies have shown that dementia and even Alzheimer’s disease can be caused by gingivitis. This happens when bacteria from the mouth spreads to the nerve channels and gets into the bloodstream.
• Diabetes. Diabetics are already more prone to infection but periodontal disease can make diabetes harder to control. Gum disease can cause blood sugar levels to go haywire, leading to the worsening of symptoms. People with bad teeth are at a higher risk of developing diabetes.
• Erectile dysfunction. Chronic periodontal disease is an infection where the gums pull away from the teeth, creating pockets that allow bacteria to spread to the bone around the teeth. It is related with erectile dysfunction. This inflammation blocks the flow of the blood to the genitals so erections are more difficult.
• Kidney disease. People suffering from gum disease usually have weaker immune systems, making them more likely to get infections. Those suffering from poor oral health usually suffer from kidney disease as well, which can be fatal when it leads to cardiovascular disease or kidney failure.
• Infertility. Gum disease can lead to numerous health issues that can make it harder for women to conceive and sustain a healthy, normal pregnancy. A woman with bad teeth might find it significantly harder to get pregnant compared to someone who has good dental health.
• Pregnancy complications. Pregnancy causes hormonal changes in the body that causes a pregnant woman to develop oral infections more easily, increasing her risk of suffering pregnancy complications. Oral health problems like gingivitis and periodontitis can lead to low birth weight and premature birth.
• Respiratory infections. Bacteria from swollen gums and infected teeth can be breathed right into the lungs or get there via the bloodstream. From there, the bacteria can start to infect the respiratory system, leading to the development of diseases like pneumonia, acute bronchitis and COPD.

Prevent these health issues by practicing good oral hygiene, including regularly visiting your dentistfor routine checkup and cleaning. Keep in mind that oral health is an indicator of overall health. Preventing oral problems like periodontal disease and gingivitis can greatly help decrease your risk of developing serious health problems.

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