The body, especially the digestive system, may suffer from poor dental hygiene. Bacteria flourish in the mouth, where they are protected by various microorganisms that aid in breaking down food particles. These bacteria assist in carbohydrate breakdown. However, eating becomes painful because bacteria’s waste products damage tooth enamel.
The Oral Microbiome is Affected by the Gut Microbiome
There are several indications that your gut flora may not be in balance. For instance, poor dental health may result in gastrointestinal issues because mouth germs can irritate the digestive tract. In addition, systemic ailments may be affected by these germs. During a routine exam, your dentist can look for these symptoms.
Some oral bacteria can enter the digestive system, despite their rarity. These strains are highly contagious, and when they enter the gut, they can spread disease.
GI Health is Impacted by Oral Health
The close connection between the mouth and the gut impacts health. Poor dental health may be influenced by poor digestive health. Additionally, digestive disorders, including Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, can manifest as oral issues. Because oral and gastrointestinal health is closely related, digestive disorders can appear as oral symptoms as their first warning sign.
Three million adult Americans suffer from inflammatory bowel disease, a common ailment (IBD). The digestive tract’s excess of bacteria is what causes inflammatory bowel disease. Studies have shown that since these bacteria are preserved in the oral microbiome, having bad dental health may worsen IBD symptoms.
Indications of a Healthy Mouth
Your total well-being depends on the condition of your mouth. Additionally, it’s vital for chewing and swallowing and helps your immune system develop and strengthen. Since your mouth contains the initial section of your digestive system, keeping optimum dental health is essential. It might be a symptom of a more significant issue that could harm your general health.
Because of the strong relationship between the two areas of the body, the gut and mouth, health is related. Poor oral health can impair the immune system, which also impacts digestion. This symptom can also be present in illnesses including Crohn’s, ulcerative colitis, and inflammatory bowel disease. These illnesses may affect your general health and result in unpleasant symptoms.
Poor Dental Hygiene’s Effects on Gut Health
Your digestive system could be negatively impacted by poor mouth hygiene. For example, it could result in constipation or exacerbate a digestive condition like irritable bowel syndrome. This is because many oral bacteria can irritate and harm the digestive system. In addition, an imbalanced oral microbiome caused by gum disease increases the risk of disease-causing microorganisms invading the digestive system.
Your heart may be impacted by poor oral health. According to a study, oral bacteria may enter the bloodstream, travel to nature, and stick there, leading to endocarditis. Increased inflammation, linked to cardiovascular disease, is another effect of oral bacteria.
