The Link Between Oral Health & Overall Health

There is a strong link between oral health and overall health. Poor oral health can lead to a variety of health problems, including tooth decay, gum disease, and infections.

These conditions can cause pain, discomfort, and difficulty eating and speaking. In some cases, they can also lead to more serious health problems, such as heart disease and respiratory infections. On the other hand, good oral health can help to prevent these problems and promote overall health.

Good Oral Improves Overall Health

Regular brushing, flossing, and dental checkups can help to keep the mouth healthy and prevent the development of these conditions. By taking care of their oral health, individuals can also improve their overall health and well-being.

Holistic dentistry is a type of dental care that takes into account the overall health and well-being of the individual, rather than just focusing on the treatment of dental problems. Holistic dentists often use a more natural approach to dental care, incorporating techniques such as acupuncture and herbal medicine. They may also recommend alternative treatments and therapies, such as meditation and stress management, to promote overall health and well-being.

Holistic dentistry is often focused on preventing dental problems and promoting overall health, rather than just treating existing dental issues.

Oral Health & Disease

There is a strong connection between the bacteria in the mouth and infections or diseases in other parts of the body. The mouth is home to a diverse community of bacteria, some of which are beneficial and help to keep the mouth healthy. However, if the balance of bacteria in the mouth is disrupted, harmful bacteria can thrive and cause dental problems, such as tooth decay and gum disease.

These conditions can lead to the development of infections, which can spread to other parts of the body and cause more serious health problems. For example, bacteria from gum disease can enter the bloodstream and contribute to the development of heart disease or other conditions.

Some of the harmful bacteria that can live in the mouth and cause these problems include Streptococcus mutans, Porphyromonas gingivalis, and Fusobacterium nucleatum. These bacteria are often associated with tooth decay and gum disease, and they can cause the development of infections if they are not properly controlled. Therefore, taking care of the mouth and maintaining good oral hygiene can help to prevent the spread of harmful bacteria and promote overall health.

Streptococcus mutans is a type of bacteria that is commonly found in the mouth. It is a Gram-positive, spherical bacterium that is part of the normal oral flora, but it can cause dental problems if it is not kept in check. Streptococcus mutans is one of the primary bacteria responsible for the development of tooth decay. It produces lactic acid as a byproduct of fermentation, which can erode the enamel on teeth and create the conditions for cavities to develop. Streptococcus mutans is also a major contributor to the development of plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that can form on the teeth and lead to gum disease. Therefore, maintaining good oral hygiene and controlling the growth of Streptococcus mutans can help to prevent tooth decay and promote good oral health.

Porphyromonas gingivalis is a type of bacteria that is commonly found in the mouth. It is a Gram-negative, rod-shaped bacterium that is part of the normal oral flora, but it can cause dental problems if it is not kept in check. Porphyromonas gingivalis is one of the main bacteria responsible for the development of gum disease, also known as periodontitis. It produces enzymes that can break down the tissues and bone that support the teeth, leading to the development of gum pockets and eventually tooth loss. Porphyromonas gingivalis is also a major contributor to the formation of biofilms, which are complex communities of bacteria that can form on the teeth and other surfaces in the mouth. These biofilms are difficult to remove and can contribute to the development of dental problems. Therefore, controlling the growth of Porphyromonas gingivalis is important for maintaining good oral health.

Fusobacterium nucleatum is a type of bacteria that is commonly found in the mouth. It is a Gram-negative, rod-shaped bacterium that is part of the normal oral flora, but it can cause dental problems if it is not kept in check. Fusobacterium nucleatum is one of the primary bacteria responsible for the development of gum disease. It produces a variety of enzymes and toxins that can damage the tissues in the gums, leading to the development of periodontitis, a severe form of gum disease.

How Do Tooth Infections Spread Through the Body?

Bacterial infections can spread from the site of the initial infection to other parts of the body, causing systemic infections. This can happen through several different mechanisms. For example, bacteria can enter the bloodstream through the bloodstream and travel to other parts of the body, where they can cause infections. Bacteria can also enter the lymphatic system, which is a network of vessels that carries lymphatic fluid and immune cells throughout the body. This can allow the bacteria to spread to other parts of the body and cause infections in multiple organs or tissues. In some cases, bacteria can also enter the body through open wounds or cuts, allowing them to spread to other parts of the body. Once the bacteria have entered the body, they can multiply and cause infections in other organs or tissues, leading to serious health problems.

See the dentists at Excel Dental Clinic in Hamilton, before small problems like a toothache turn into serious health problems.