Reminder: Book a dentist appointment, it’s not just your teeth you’re protecting

What we know about oral health and its impact on whole-body health

Strong scientific evidence shows that chronic oral diseases, particularly gum diseases, are associated with higher risks of cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, adverse pregnancy outcomes, and respiratory infections. This is largely because oral bacteria and inflammatory molecules can enter the bloodstream and contribute to inflammation and disease.

Let’s have a closer look at how your body is impacted by oral health:

• Cardiovascular disease: A large 2023 study that followed more than 4 million people found that people with gum disease had a significantly higher risk of heart disease and stroke compared to those with healthy gums.¹ A mouth lacking in TLC (and suffering from inflammation) can fuel even more inflammation throughout the body, and the heart is an organ that may be affected. 
• Type 2 diabetes: There are also strong, studied links between gum disease and type 2 diabetes. The connection again comes down to chronic inflammation. Gum disease creates ongoing inflammation in the body, which can make it harder for insulin to work properly. This can contribute to insulin resistance which is a key driver of type 2 diabetes.²
• Adverse pregnancy outcomes: This connection comes down to inflammation as well as infection. Gum disease causes chronic inflammation in the body, and harmful oral bacteria can enter the bloodstream. During pregnancy, this inflammation may interfere with the placenta and trigger early labour or restricted fetal growth.³ It is safe and encouraged to see a dentist during and post-pregnancy.
• Respiratory infections: Your mouth and lungs are more connected than you realise. When gums are inflamed or plaque builds up, these bacteria can be inhaled or accidentally aspirated into the lungs, particularly during sleep, illness, or in older adults. Once in the lungs, they can contribute to infection and inflammation.⁴ 

When it comes to oral and whole-body health, even though scientists are still studying whether one directly causes the other, what we do know is that the relationship works both ways: conditions like diabetes can make gum disease worse, and improving oral health can help lower inflammation in the body and improve things like heart health.

Tips to avoid dental infections

We asked HBF Dental to provide some tips on how to avoid infections and when to book in for a dentist visit. Spoiler, it’s every six months.

• Brush, floss repeat: Brush your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and floss daily to remove food particles
• Get mouthwash involved: Use an antibacterial mouthwash to kill bacteria and reduce plaque
• Get greens involved, too: Make sure you’re getting your greens as well as a nice balance of lean proteins, fruits, and colourful veggies – eat the rainbow!
• Tobacco is a no-no: Best to avoid it at all costs as it increases your risk of gum disease and tooth infections.

When to see a dentist, enter HBF Dental

• Pain and sensitivity
• Swollen, red or tender gums
• A bad taste in your mouth, or bad breath
• Facial swelling, including tender or swollen lymph nodes under the jaw or neck
• Difficulty opening your mouth or swallowing.