As you would imagine, the functions of the body are all interconnected. In fact, studies show that chronic inflammation in one place can result in health effects in other parts of the body. Poor oral health has been linked to a number of diseases such as endocarditis, cardiovascular disease and pneumonia. Just as oral health can positively or negatively impact overall health, medical conditions stemming from elsewhere in the body can impact your oral health. Here are just a few:
1. Acid Reflux
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), or acid reflux, occurs when stomach acid flows back up into the esophagus, or food pipe. When this happens, a person usually experiences something called heartburn—a burning sensation in the upper chest. This stomach acid is so powerful it can erode the enamel on the back teeth. If you have acid reflux that occurs more than twice a week over a long period of time, your teeth are at risk of decay.
If you experience acid reflux during the day, be sure to thoroughly rinse your mouth out after each episode. It may be tempting to brush immediately afterward, but if the acid has reached your teeth, it can further dissolve your tooth enamel if you brush. We recommend waiting 30 minutes and then brushing. If acid reflux tends to strike at night, try to refrain from eating two to three hours before bedtime, and avoid triggers like alcohol, caffeine and acidic foods.
2. Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis is a medical condition that impacts over 3 million Americans. It is characterized by an increased risk of bone fractures, especially affecting the forearm, vertebrae and hip. However, some studies link osteoporosis to an increased risk of bone loss in the jaw, periodontal diseases, tooth loss, and other oral tissue changes. Some of the drugs used to treat osteoporosis may also negatively impact oral health.
3. High Blood Pressure
Many medications taken to control hypertension, or high blood pressure, are shown to come with the unwanted side effect of gingival enlargement, a condition in which your gums swell and start to grow over your teeth. This inflammation can lead to other oral health conditions if it’s not addressed.
4. Kidney Disease
Studies show that patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) have a higher predisposition to oral lesions and tooth decay due to dry mouth—this is a common side effect of certain medications. In addition, someone with kidney disease who also has a buildup of bacteria in his or her mouth is more susceptible to infection because of a weakened immune system.
Dentist in Flagstaff
These are just some of the common conditions that may increase the likelihood of tooth decay. In upcoming blog posts, we will discuss the effects of diabetes, autoimmune diseases and Alzheimer’s on oral health. If you have one of these conditions, please talk to us about it at your next appointment. Our dentists at Country Club Dental Flagstaff care about the overall picture of your health. With proper oral care and regular dental cleanings, tooth decay associated with these conditions may be treated and even prevented.
Images used under creative commons license – commercial use. Image by rawpixel from Pixabay (11/26/2019)
