When you think about visiting the dentist, you probably think about keeping your mouth clean and free of cavities. The reality is that dentistry has a much more significant impact on your health than providing a pretty smile. In fact, there are at least 58 known diseases related to oral health, some of them with significant consequences. A dentist trained to identify the indicators of disease and guide patients to getting the care they need can help people experience greater whole body health.
I’ve seen the incredible ways that diagnosis during a dental exam can impact overall health firsthand. When training to be a dentist, I got to work with a team that helped a man completely turn around his health through dentistry. Our team had this particular patient on the table for oral surgery three times and kept having to stop the mission because his blood pressure was so high he would have had a heart attack on the table. Instead of prescribing more medication, we encouraged him to go through counseling, which led to a series of lifestyle changes, such as eating less processed foods and exercising. Soon enough, this patient regained his health and vitality and could go through with the necessary oral surgery successfully and without complications.
In another experience, a young patient was experiencing sleep apnea, and I was able to identify the problem through a comprehensive exam that includes a routine airway evaluation. I referred the patient to a trusted pediatric ear, nose, and throat doctor (ENT) and together with an Myofunctional Therapist (OMT) we helped the patient sleep better and alleviate some risk for developing more serious oral conditions that could have included ADHD, ADD, behavioral issues, speech delay, bed wetting, long term sleep apnea development and more.
Top Diseases Connected to Oral Health, According to Research
Oral Health and Cardiovascular Disease
Studies demonstrate a clear connection between oral health and heart health. Oral bacteria are often found in arterial plaque, indicating that gum disease and plaque build-up in the arteries go hand in hand. Treatment of gum disease has been found to increase vascular health and reduce the risk of plaque build-up, lowering the risk of heart disease, heart attack and stroke.
Oral Health and Dementia
While a direct causal relationship is not certain, research suggests that untreated gum disease can lead to elevated systemic inflammation, heightening the risk of neurodegeneration. Studies show that there seems to be a connection between signs of gum disease and MRI findings associated with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia.
Oral Health and Cancer
Head, neck, and throat cancer screenings are always a part of our preventive dental program. The American Cancer Society estimates that approximately 59,660 people will be diagnosed with oral or throat cancer in 2025. Catching cancer early through routine examinations increases the chances of successful treatment.
Oral Health and Diabetes
Research demonstrates a bidirectional relationship between diabetes and gum disease—people with diabetes are more likely to develop gum disease, and treatment of people with diabetes and gum disease improves glycemic control.
Oral Health and Respiratory Problems
The Imbalance in oral bacteria a.k.a. your mouth’s microbiome, can lead to respiratory infections, according to researchers. Specifically, oral diseases and poor oral hygiene can increase the risk of respiratory infections like the flu, COPD, asthma, and pneumonia.
Oral Health and Rheumatoid Arthritis
Studies have demonstrated that people with gum disease can release oral bacteria into their bloodstream, potentially triggering an antibody response. While meant to target bacteria, these antibodies can get it wrong and target citrullinated proteins in the joints instead, potentially leading to a rheumatoid arthritis flare-up.
Oral Health and Osteoporosis
A review of research shows that symptoms such as number of teeth, gum disease, cavities, dental treatment needs, and ability to chew properly are related to bone health. In this way, poor oral health can be an early indicator of osteoporosis. If your dentist is dedicated to preventive care, they can help you identify the signs of osteoporosis before it progresses.
Oral Health and Sleep Apnea
A review of the research connecting oral health and sleep apnea has found that sleep apnea is associated with gum disease, dry mouth, jaw joint disorders, changes in taste, and sometimes cavities. Inflammation caused by sleep apnea can also increases the severity of disease. Dentists can help fix these problems by conducting a thorough airway evaluation and referring the patient to the proper professionals. For instance, a child or adult with signs of sleep disordered breathing may be referred to a sleep physician and/or ear, nose and throat doctor (ENT).
Oral Health and Kidney Disease
Gum disease and tooth loss may be associated with a higher risk of developing chronic kidney disease (CKD). One study found that brushing your teeth at least three times a day could potentially lead to a decreased risk of developing the disease.
Oral Health and Prostate and Erectile Dysfunction
In a review, researchers found a connection between gum disease and erectile dysfunction (ED) via endothelial dysfunction, inflammation, oxidative stress, and periodontal pathogens. Essentially, gum disease can decrease circulation, impacting the performance of smooth muscles. Some studies demonstrate improvement in ED with gum disease treatment.
At Montrose Dental Wellness, we operate under the philosophy that a healthy mouth is a gateway to a healthy body. Our solutions have a foundation in dental wellness, an innovative approach to dentistry that addresses whole-body health and wellness.
During our dental wellness exams, we provide enhanced oral hygiene while providing radiographs, jaw joint and airway examinations, head and neck oral cancer screenings, and cavity and gum disease detection to help our patients feel their best.
Schedule your dental wellness exam in Montrose, Colorado today.