Taking care of your oral health can help prevent complications from pre-existing conditions
The mouth can reveal a lot about your overall health, as changes in your teeth, gums and mucous membranes often reflect internal imbalances. Oral problems can be related to chronic conditions such as diabetes, anemia, and even heart disease. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), approximately 3.5 billion people worldwide are affected by oral diseases, of which tooth decay is the most common problem.
In Brazil, the numbers also attract attention: among adults and the elderly, tooth loss is the most widespread phenomenon. In the 65 to 74 age group, 73% need some type of dental prosthesis. A 2019 survey conducted by the Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistics (IBGE) also revealed that 34 million Brazilians over the age of 18 had lost 13 or more teeth, and 14 million had already lost all their teeth.
“It is through the mouth that food and also bacteria enter. It is one of the main points of contact with the external environment and hosts thousands of microorganisms that live in balance”, says Maria de Lourdes Soares, dentist at AmorSaúde, who warns: “However, in the case of inflammation or gum infections, these microorganisms can spread through the mouth. blood flow and affect other parts of the body.”
According to the professional, systemic diseases can manifest subtle signs in the mouth even before other symptoms appear. See some of them below.
1. Diabetes: inflammation and slow healing
Patients with diabetes they tend to have gum inflammation more frequently, as well as being more prone to infections and slow healing after procedures. A high glucose level compromises immunity and promotes the accumulation of bacteria in the mouth.
2. Heart disease: recurrent bleeding and infections
Inflamed gums and frequent bleeding may be signs of cardiovascular problems or consequence of medications used by those suffering from heart disease. Additionally, the presence of bacteria in the mouth can worsen endocarditis (infection of the inner lining of the heart).
3. Anemia: smooth tongue and pale mucous membranes
THEanemia This can be seen by changes in the color of the oral mucosa, which becomes paler, in addition to frequent canker sores and a smooth, painful tongue.
4. Autoimmune diseases: persistent wounds and inflammation
In diseases such as lupuslichen planus and Sjögren’s syndrome, the appearance of recurrent wounds and inflammation of the oral mucosa is common.
5. Nutritional deficiencies and gastrointestinal diseases: bad breath and enamel changes
Problems like refluxgastritis and vitamin deficiencies (e.g. B12, iron and zinc) also manifest themselves in the mouth, whether through persistent bad breath, enamel erosion or changes in the tongue. These signals serve as a warning to investigate digestive or eating disorders.
Importance of follow-up with a dentist
Maria de Lourdes Soares warns that the dentist can identify these signs and refer the patient for a complete medical evaluation. Additionally, he points out that untreated oral problems can worsen pre-existing conditions.
“Periodontal disease and oral infections allow bacteria to enter the bloodstream during simple activities, such as brushing your teeth or chewing. In people with heart problems, this can cause bacterial endocarditis, a serious infection. In diabetic patients, oral infections interfere with the action of insulin, making it difficult to control blood glucose levels,” he explains.
Despite this, many people still only go to the dentist when they feel pain. The professional underlines that the verify Regular dental care is essential. “Prevention is better than cure. Regular consultations allow early diagnosis of tooth decay, gum inflammation and even suspicious lesions, such as oral cancer, avoiding complications and keeping oral health in balance,” says Maria de Lourdes Soares.
The professional points out that some signs deserve attention, as they could indicate periodontal disease or even potentially malignant lesions: bleeding gums, constant bad breath, swollen gums or wounds that do not heal for more than 15 days.
Habits that affect oral health
In addition to systemic diseases, the dentist warns that lifestyle also has a direct impact on oral health. Food, sleep, smoking and even stress They can alter the balance of the oral microbiota and promote the appearance of cavities, inflammation and wounds. I wait!
1. Diets high in sugar
Frequent consumption of sweets, soft drinks and ultra-processed foods feeds bacteria that produce acids and erode tooth enamel, increasing the risk of tooth decay and bad breath. The best option is to maintain a balanced diet, with fruits, vegetables and proteins, and reduce the frequency of sugars, not just the quantity.
2. Smoking
Smoking reduces tissue oxygenation, damages gums and delays healing, as well as causing stains on the teeth and increasing the risk of oral cancer. E-cigarette users should also be careful, as liquid nicotine also affects local circulation.
3. Lack of sleep
Sleeping too little weakens the immune system, favoring canker sores, infections and gingivitis. The bad guy quality of sleep It is also associated with bruxism, which causes tooth wear and headaches.
4. Stress and anxiety
These factors increase the release of cortisol, which changes the pH of the mouth and reduces saliva production, a combination that facilitates the appearance of cavities, bad breath and muscle tension in the jaw.
5. Alcohol consumption
Alcohol irritates the oral mucosa, causes dehydration and reduces salivary flow. In excess it can favor the appearance of wounds and, in the long term, increase the risk of precancerous lesions.
Oral health is integral health
For Maria de Lourdes Soares it is important to remember that oral care is part of the patient’s overall care. “The dentist collaborates with doctors to control risk factors and adapt behaviors, for example by adapting dental treatment in heart patients, diabetics or pregnant women. This dialogue is essential for comprehensive care,” he says.
In older adults, he points out that oral health has a direct impact on nutrition, speech and even emotional well-being. “Inadequate dentures, dry mouth and oral infections compromise health quality of life and general health,” he adds.
To keep your body and mouth healthy, the professional recommends simple daily practices: “Brush your teeth well after meals, use dental floss, control your sugar consumption and maintain requests repeat customers make a huge difference. Those who adopt these habits take care not only of their smile, but of their entire body”, he concludes.
By Nayara Campos
Source: Terra
Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.
