Oral Pathogen-Related Chronic Diseases
The silent impact of oral health
Discover how poor oral health can contribute to serious conditions like heart disease, diabetes and Alzheimer’s disease.
Oral Pathogen-Related Chronic Diseases
The silent impact of oral health
Often overlooked when people consider their body’s health, the health of the mouth is a cornerstone of well being. Even more surprising for many, it’s alive in more ways than meets the eye. This bustling ecosystem is home to tiny bacteria, many of which are important to keeping our body’s health in balance. However, when harmful bacteria get too comfortable, especially when we let our oral health slide, significant problems kick off. Changes that start inside our mouth do not stay in our mouth; their effect ripples throughout our entire body.
Not long ago, oral diseases were mainly seen as localised problems, but the consensus has shifted. Health problems in the mouth are now understood to open potential gateways for disease to afflict the entire body. Oral pathogens are now understood to increase the risk of issues such as heart disease, diabetes, Alzheimer’s disease, stroke, cancer, rheumatoid arthritis and pregnancy complications.
What are chronic diseases?
Chronic diseases are long-term conditions with widespread impacts. Typically, they worsen gradually and affect multiple organs or systems in the body. Unlike acute illnesses that have a relatively rapid onset and recovery, chronic diseases require ongoing medical attention and often significantly impact a person’s quality of life. Common chronic diseases include heart disease, stroke, diabetes, cancer, chronic respiratory diseases and obesity.
How oral pathogens cause trouble for the whole body
Oral pathogens, primarily bacteria, form a complex biofilm on teeth and gums. This biofilm layer shields bacteria from being removed by oral hygiene practices and impedes the immune system’s efforts to control it. When oral hygiene is inadequate, harmful bacteria like Porphyromonas gingivalis can proliferate, leading to gum inflammation and infection.
Gum disease can allow these thriving pathogens to enter the bloodstream through damaged gum tissue. Once in the bloodstream, they can trigger a systemic inflammatory response, contributing to the development and progression of various chronic diseases. For example, P. gingivalis in the bloodstream has been linked to an increased risk of heart disease by promoting inflammation in the arteries. Additionally, the byproducts produced by these bacteria, such as endotoxins, can exacerbate systemic inflammation, affecting conditions like diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis and certain cancers.
What oral health means for chronic diseases
The connection between oral health and overall well-being is increasingly recognised. Maintaining good oral hygiene is essential not just for a healthy mouth but for your overall health. Here are some specific ways oral health, particularly periodontal (gum) disease, is linked to various chronic conditions.
Cardiovascular disease
Gum disease has been strongly linked to an increased risk of heart attack, stroke and other cardiovascular problems. This happens because harmful bacteria and inflammatory substances from gum disease can enter your bloodstream through your gums. Once in the bloodstream, these bacteria can contribute to the formation of atherosclerosis (plaque buildup in the arteries) and blood clots. This can lead to serious heart problems like heart attacks and strokes. Additionally, the chronic inflammation caused by gum disease can promote arterial inflammation, making these cardiovascular conditions even worse.
Diabetes
The relationship between diabetes and gum disease is bidirectional. People with diabetes are more prone to gum disease due to high blood sugar levels weakening the immune system and impairing wound healing. Conversely, gum disease can make it harder to control blood sugar levels, creating a vicious cycle. Chronic inflammation from gum disease can worsen insulin resistance, making diabetes management more challenging. Therefore, maintaining good oral health is crucial for people with diabetes to help manage their condition effectively.
Respiratory diseases
Oral bacteria can be inhaled into the lungs, particularly in vulnerable populations such as the elderly, people with weakened immune systems and those with chronic lung diseases. This can lead to respiratory infections such as pneumonia. When harmful bacteria from the mouth are inhaled, they can infect the respiratory tract, causing infections and exacerbating existing lung conditions, making it more difficult to breathe and recover.
Rheumatoid arthritis
Although the exact link is still being studied, there seems to be a connection between gum disease and rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Both conditions involve chronic inflammation. The inflammation from gum disease might contribute to the systemic inflammation seen in RA, worsening joint pain and damage. Similarly, the inflammation associated with RA can exacerbate gum disease, creating a cycle of worsening symptoms in both conditions.
Preterm birth and low birth weight
Oral infections during pregnancy have been associated with an increased risk of preterm birth and low birth weight. Inflammation and bacteria from gum disease can enter the bloodstream and affect pregnancy outcomes. The inflammatory mediators released from infected gums can reach the placenta, potentially leading to complications like preterm labour and low birth weight. This highlights the importance of maintaining excellent oral health during pregnancy to support both maternal and fetal health.
Osteoporosis
Emerging research suggests a possible link between gum disease and osteoporosis. Both conditions involve bone loss and may share similar inflammatory processes. Chronic inflammation from gum disease can lead to the breakdown of bone tissue in the jaw, while systemic bone loss from osteoporosis can weaken the bones supporting your teeth, increasing the risk of tooth loss and further gum disease. Addressing one condition may help mitigate the effects of the other.
Alzheimer’s disease
While the evidence is still developing, some studies indicate a potential association between gum disease and Alzheimer’s disease. Chronic inflammation from gum disease may contribute to cognitive decline. Oral bacteria can potentially enter the brain through the bloodstream, triggering an immune response that damages brain tissue and leads to the progression of Alzheimer’s disease. Keeping your gums healthy might reduce the risk of developing such neurodegenerative conditions.
Cancer
The link between oral health and cancer is complex, but chronic inflammation from gum disease has been associated with an increased risk of certain cancers, including pancreatic and colorectal cancer. Inflammatory mediators from chronic gum infections can promote cellular changes and mutations, increasing cancer risk. Additionally, some studies suggest that oral bacteria might produce carcinogenic substances that can cause cancer. Maintaining good oral hygiene can thus play a role in reducing cancer risk.
Happy mouth, healthy body
While the complexities of the relationship between oral and systemic health are still being explored and documented, one thing remains clear: your mouth is a window into your overall well-being. By prioritising oral hygiene and seeking regular dental care, you are not only safeguarding your smile but also investing in your long-term health. It’s time to recognise the mouth-body connection and make oral health a fundamental part of your wellness routine.