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The Hidden Connection Between Oral Health and Chronic Disease.
- Suzee Tylee
- 6 days ago
- 2 min read
Poor oral hygiene can contribute to chronic disease. The health of your mouth is closely linked to your overall health — this connection is known as the oral-systemic link. Here are some key ways poor oral health can drive or worsen chronic diseases:
1. Cardiovascular Disease (Heart Disease, Stroke)
How it happens: Gum disease (periodontitis) can lead to chronic inflammation. Bacteria from the mouth may enter the bloodstream and contribute to plaque buildup in arteries (atherosclerosis) or trigger blood clots.
2. Diabetes
Two-way relationship:
Diabetes can increase the risk of gum disease.
Gum disease can make it harder to control blood sugar, creating a vicious cycle.
Chronic inflammation in the mouth may also worsen insulin resistance.
3. Respiratory Infections
Bacteria from infected gums or decaying teeth can be inhaled into the lungs, especially in older adults or people with weakened immune systems.
This can cause or exacerbate pneumonia, COPD, and other respiratory conditions.
4. Adverse Pregnancy Outcomes
Gum disease is linked to an increased risk of preterm birth and low birth weight.
Inflammatory cytokines and bacteria may affect the fetus via the bloodstream.
5. Rheumatoid Arthritis
The chronic inflammation and specific bacteria in gum disease may play a role in triggering or worsening autoimmune responses involved in RA.
6. Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)
Periodontal disease is associated with systemic inflammation, which can burden the kidneys.
CKD patients with poor oral health have higher mortality rates.
What can you do to optimise your oral health and hygeine?
Regular brushing, flossing, and dental checkups reduce harmful bacteria and inflammation.
Steering clear of high sugar foods and foods that are very acidic will also encourage less plaque and therefore a more favourable oral microbiome.
If you live with any of the above conditions and suspect that you have poor oral hygeine you may wish to get your oral microbiome tested. I recommend the ORALIS1 microbiome test that not only tests for over 100 microbes and bacteria but also offers agents and solutions to being your oral microbiome back into balance.
Caution whilst kissing animals- if their oral hygeine is compromised- it might impact yours!
If you would like to know more about functional dentistry Victoria Sampson is leading the way-
If you would like to book an Oralis1 microbiome test-- here is a link to my website-
This podcast is amazing too!
INTERESTING fact!-- during the above podcast Victoria Sampson talks about a client who had halitosis and chronic inflammation with gum disease. Her oral microbiome results from ORALIS1 indicated that she shared more oral bacteria with a canine that a human. When asked if she had pets at home she told her dentist she had 5 dogs all of which she allowed to lick her face and mouth..... absolutely facinating right?? Once this imbalance was treated her symptoms were resolved.
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