Dental and Overall Health
Oral health issues don't always start in your mouth. There are multiple medical conditions, including arthritis, kidney disease, and diabetes, that can increase the likelihood of gum disease and tooth decay.1 The same goes in the other direction – poor oral health can cause systemic illnesses or aggravate existing ones.
Understanding the connection between medical and dental conditions can help you manage your health holistically and prevent issues before they arise. By addressing chronic health issues and maintaining good oral hygiene, you can help protect both your smile and overall well-being.
Medical conditions that could put your dental health at risk
Medical conditions can affect your dental health and vice versa. There's a growing body of research that shows the interconnectedness between the health of your gums and teeth and possible systemic medical conditions, including diabetes, arthritis, cancer, and more.
If you're experiencing any chronic conditions, they could make oral care more challenging. Patients with diabetes, for example, face a higher risk of dry mouth, which can lead to soreness, infections, and tooth decay.2 And if you have a weakened immune system, you may be more prone to gum infections.3
But while medical conditions can put your dental health at risk, managing both your oral health and overall health together can help prevent health issues. That's why understanding the health risks of poor oral care is key – it can help you take a holistic approach to oral care.
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Diabetes and oral health
People with diabetes can develop oral health problems if their blood sugar isn't well managed. High blood sugar weakens white blood cells, so the body isn't able to defend itself as well against infections, including those that start with bacteria in the mouth.
Some oral health problems associated with diabetes include:4
If you have diabetes and smoke, you're up to 20 times more likely than a non-smoker to develop thrush and periodontal disease. Prioritizing oral health and diabetes management – for instance, by regulating your blood sugar levels – can help protect you from gum disease and other oral health problems.
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Cardiovascular disease and dental health
Studies have shown a link between oral health problems and cardiovascular disease.5 While the connection between oral health and heart disease isn't fully understood, gum disease may contribute to heart disease by creating inflammation in the body, which in turn leads to vascular damage.5
It might also have to do with bacteria traveling from the mouth to other blood vessels in the body, where they can cause blood clots, heart attack, and stroke.5
Those who have a history of heart disease may see symptoms manifest in the mouth, such as dry mouth, bleeding gums, or jaw pain.6,7 If you have heart disease (or risk factors for it), communicate with your dentist and doctor so they can help you take a holistic approach to managing your health.
Pregnancy and oral health risks
Pregnant women may be at higher risk of gingivitis and other oral health issues due to hormonal changes in the body. Some possible dental issues to watch out for include:
Oral health issues during pregnancy have been linked to premature birth and low birth weight.9 Providers encourage expectant mothers to be proactive about preventive dentistry by:
If you have any oral hygiene or systemic health concerns, see your dentist promptly for diagnosis and treatment.
Immune disorders and oral health
Immune system disorders can increase oral health risks as well. If you have a weakened immune system, you'll have a tougher time fighting off bacteria that can cause gum disease and oral thrush.11
Your body may already be in a state of heightened inflammation, which could worsen with periodontal disease or other dental disorders. Some immune disorders and their accompanying medications can cause dry mouth, which further increases the risk of gum disease.12
Improving oral hygiene can help support immune health, since your body won't have to work so hard to fight off additional infections. Taking care of your teeth and gums can reduce the bacterial load on your immune system and lessen inflammation.
Neglecting oral care, on the other hand, can burden your immune system and lead to more severe oral health issues. Plus, your body may have a harder time fighting off other viruses and bacteria if it's already working hard to manage infections in the mouth.
Respiratory conditions and dental health
Since your mouth is connected to your lungs, it can have a major impact on your respiratory health. Neglecting your oral hygiene can mean that bacteria gets into the lungs, potentially causing issues like pneumonia or even lung disease.13
Plus, gum disease increases inflammation in the body, creating an extra burden for your immune system. If you're already dealing with respiratory issues like asthma, your symptoms could worsen.
Preventive dentistry can help you maintain good oral hygiene. Take care of your teeth to reduce dental plaque and help keep gum disease from developing.
Other chronic conditions that could impact dental health
There are a host of other chronic diseases that have a link to oral health. According to the American Academy for Oral & Systemic Health, these include:13
Poor oral health may lead to systemic health issues, while existing issues can make it more challenging to fight off gum disease and other infections. Because of this oral-systemic link, symptoms of problems like diabetes and cancer can sometimes first be detected in the mouth.15
Managing these conditions can promote oral health, while prioritizing oral hygiene could help protect you from systemic health issues or a worsening of symptoms. Adults should also discuss any medications they're taking with their dental providers so they can tailor treatments accordingly.
Preventive measures for at-risk individuals
A proactive approach to oral care is important for those with medical conditions. Some tips that may help prevent the decay of your permanent teeth include:16
Make sure to communicate with your dentist about your full health history so they can customize your treatments. They'll also need to know about any medications you take that could cause dry mouth or other issu
Preventive dentistry is crucial if other medical conditions make you susceptible to oral health problems. The importance of regular dental check-ups is also great, since your dentist can spot potential problems, such as cavities, or signs of other systemic health concerns.
If you don't have a dentist, search for local preventive dental services in your area. If you have dental insurance, seeing an in-network provider could help you keep costs down.
How MetLife supports dental health for at-risk individuals
Maintaining your oral health is important for your overall health, especially if you're already managing a medical condition like diabetes, heart disease, or an immune disorder. Through employers, MetLife offers a variety of dental insurance plans that are designed to meet your and your family's needs.
With a MetLife dental insurance plan, you could be covered for cleanings, exams, gum disease treatment, and other services that support your health. MetLife dental insurance can be good for seniors and families, too.
Plans vary, but preventive care and regular dental checkups are typically 100% covered, so you can proactively take care of your teeth at no extra cost. With MetLife dental benefits, you'll also receive education about how to manage the dental health risks linked to chronic conditions.
Your dental and overall health
Managing medical conditions goes beyond treating the obvious symptoms – it also protects your oral health. Many systemic health conditions, including diabetes and kidney disease, can adversely affect oral health.1
Neglecting these health conditions could possibly lead to oral health problems, which in turn can make systemic illnesses worse. But keeping medical conditions under control and practicing good oral hygiene can help your oral health and immune system.
Preventive dentistry and open communication with your healthcare providers can also protect your mouth and body and allow for early detection of any developing issues. By taking a whole-body approach to your health, you can strengthen your oral health while promoting your overall well-being.
Halitosis, or bad breath, can be caused by a buildup of bacteria due to poor oral hygiene. It can also be related to other issues, including dry mouth, gum disease, tonsil stones, diabetes, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), kidney disease, liver disease, and some cancers. If you're experiencing chronic halitosis, see your dentist for diagnosis and treatment options. Treatment options could include plaque removal or a special mouth rinse. If the halitosis indicates another systemic issue, your dentist can refer you to a doctor for additional treatment.18
The common oral hygiene routine involves brushing your teeth twice per day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste and flossing once per day. It's also recommended to brush your tongue and avoid tobacco products, and sugary snacks and drinks. See your dentist regularly for professional cleanings and check-ups, and keep up with any recommended treatments or oral hygiene practices they recommend.16
Smoking can seriously harm your oral health. The tar from cigarettes can stain your teeth, coat your gums and tongue, and damage your tooth enamel, which increases your risk of tooth decay and gum disease. It can also cause bad breath and inflammation by damaging gum tissue. Smoking is also a major risk factor for oral cancer.19
