The Impacts of Dental Health on respiratory health
Our dental health is more important than we think when it comes to maintining our bodies overall health. I’m sure when we think about our oral health we don’t tend to consider the impacts it has further than avoiding the pain of dentail carries and dentists bills.
Our dental hygiene has a direct impact on our respiratory systems health, but how?
The Oral Microbiome
Our mouth contains a varied ecosystem of bacteria, fungi, and other microorganisms, known as the oral microbiome. An imbalance in the oral microbiome can lead to various dental problems, such as gum disease and tooth decay.
This oral microbiome can travel to other parts of the body, including the respiratory tract. Inhalation or aspiration of saliva containing oral bacteria can be inadvertently breathed into the lungs provoking inflammation and infections, exacerbating conditions like asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and pneumonia.
Gum Disease
Gum disease resulting from the buildup of plaque causing inflammation and infection is linked to respiratory disease. Individuals with advanced gum disease have a higher risk of developing respiratory infections and experiencing worsened respiratory disorder symptoms due to gum inflammation.
How to Support Dental & Respiraoty Health
Brush and Floss Regularly: Daily brushing and flossing helps to remove plaque and prevent gum disease, reducing the risk of respiratory complications associated with oral bacteria.
Attend Dental Check-ups: Whose guilty of not doing this?, me! But regular visits to the dentist enable early detection and treatment of dental problems, preventing their progression and potential impact on respiratory health. Recommended dental appointments are between 6-12 months.
Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water encourages saliva production, which helps flush out bacteria and maintain a healthy oral environment. Who knew water was so important for our dental health?
Quit Smoking & Vaping: Smoking and vaping not only harms the lungs but also compromises oral health, increasing the risk of gum disease and respiratory infections.
Healthy Diet: I know, you’ve heard this one before, but that’s because it is so important. Consuming a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins supports oral and respiratory health by providing essential nutrients and antioxidants.
The next time you pick up your toothbrush, remember that you're not just caring for your teeth but for your lungs too!.
