Missing Teeth & Consequences on Chronic Diseases
Are you in Mira Mesa or nearby and wondering how missing teeth could impact your health – or what might happen if you don’t address them? Oral health is often overlooked, but it plays a huge role in your overall well-being. Many don’t realize the connection between missing teeth, gum disease, and serious health issues like diabetes and heart disease. Poor oral health isn’t just about discomfort or aesthetics—it can have far-reaching consequences for your overall well-being. In this blog, we’ll discuss what chronic illnesses are associated with poor oral health, answer common questions, and highlight why a healthy mouth is key to a healthy body.
Can bad teeth affect diabetes?
The short answer is yes. Oral health and diabetes are closely linked. People with diabetes are more likely to suffer from gum disease (periodontitis), which is a severe form of gum infection. But this relationship is a two-way street. Let’s break it down:
Gum disease and glycemic control
Can a rotten tooth cause high blood sugar? It’s possible. Rotten teeth, often caused by severe decay or gum disease, can lead to chronic inflammation in the body. This inflammation can make it harder for people with diabetes to manage their blood sugar levels. Poor glycemic control further increases the risk of infections, including oral infections from decayed teeth, creating a vicious cycle. Studies show that individuals with severe dental issues often have higher blood sugar levels and face a greater risk of diabetes-related complications.
Missing teeth and diet
Missing teeth make it harder to eat certain healthy foods, such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, which are crucial for diabetes management. As a result, people may rely on softer, processed foods that are higher in sugar and refined carbohydrates, worsening glycemic control.
Can missing teeth cause heart problems?
Believe it or not, issues like bad teeth, gum disease, and poor oral hygiene are closely linked to heart disease. Untreated dental problems, such as missing teeth and gum infections, can significantly increase the risk of heart-related complications.
- Inflammation and cardiovascular disease
Gum disease can cause chronic inflammation, a known risk factor for heart conditions like atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries). Bacteria from infected gums can enter the bloodstream, triggering inflammation in blood vessels. This can lead to blockages, increasing the risk of heart attacks and strokes. - Increased death risk
Research suggests there may be a connection between severe gum disease, tooth loss, and an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. Individuals with advanced periodontal issues might be more vulnerable to heart-related complications compared to those with healthier gums. - Lifestyle impact
Missing teeth can make chewing difficult and uncomfortable, which often leads to poor dietary choices. Eating fewer nutrient-rich foods may impact cholesterol levels and heart health, potentially increasing the risk of cardiovascular disease.
What medical conditions are linked to oral health?
Good dental health is essential for maintaining overall well-being, especially for individuals with certain medical conditions. Here are some of them:
Kidney disease
Inflammation is the body’s natural way of fighting infections, helping it gear up to kill germs. But when infections become chronic or persistent, the constant inflammation can do more harm than good. Dental cavities and gum disease are examples of chronic bacterial infections. Along with causing pain, trouble eating, and bad breath, they can trigger harmful inflammation that affects the rest of the body.
Bacteria from cavities and gum disease don’t always stay in your mouth—they can spread, especially if your immune system is weakened. These infections can become serious and even lead to hospitalizations. If you have kidney disease, are on dialysis, or have had a kidney transplant, it’s important to let your dentist know.
Rheumatoid Arthritis
For years, experts have suspected a connection between the oral bacteria causing periodontal disease and rheumatoid arthritis. Studies have shown that periodontal disease is more common in people with rheumatoid arthritis, and those with both conditions often experience more severe arthritis symptoms that are harder to treat. Research suggests that severe gum disease allows oral bacteria to enter the bloodstream repeatedly, even without recent dental procedures. This happens when inflamed, damaged gums become “leaky,” allowing bacteria – often carrying citrullinated proteins – to spill into the bloodstream. Once there, these proteins trigger inflammatory immune cells, leading to the release of ACPAs.
Lupus and Sjogren’s Syndrome
Many people with lupus also develop Sjogren’s Syndrome, an autoimmune disorder that affects moisture-producing glands, causing dry mouth and increasing the risk of tooth decay and gum disease. This dryness makes maintaining oral hygiene more difficult and raises the chance of oral infections.
Chronic inflammation from lupus can also lead to gingivitis, which may progress to periodontal disease or tooth loss if untreated. This connection underscores the importance of good oral hygiene and addressing gum issues promptly.
What can you do to protect your oral and overall health?
The good news is that many of these risks can be mitigated by prioritizing oral health. Here are some steps you can take to reduce the impact of missing teeth and gum disease on your overall health:
Practice good oral hygiene
- Clean your teeth morning and night with fluoride toothpaste
- Make flossing part of your daily routine.
- Schedule regular dental visits for professional cleanings and checkups
- Explore options to replace missing teeth
Manage chronic conditions
If you have diabetes or heart disease, work closely with your healthcare provider to manage these conditions. Good oral health can make managing these diseases easier, and vice versa.
Eat a balanced diet
Choose a diet rich in whole foods, including fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Avoid sugary snacks and drinks that contribute to both dental problems and chronic disease risks.
Avoid tobacco and excessive alcohol
Smoking and heavy drinking are significant risk factors for gum disease, jaw bone deterioration, tooth loss, and chronic diseases like diabetes and heart disease. Quitting these habits can dramatically improve your health.
Wondering if missing teeth affect your overall health? Contact us today!
Missing teeth can have a bigger impact on your health than you might realize, but you don’t have to handle it on your own. At Temecula Dental Implants & Oral Surgery, we’re here to provide personalized care and guidance. Dr. Tsvetov, a highly skilled oral surgeon serving Mira Mesa and nearby areas, will take your overall health into account while helping you explore treatment options. He’ll also provide advice on maintaining your oral health to keep you feeling your best. Give us a call today!
Sources:
- Song-Yi Yu et.al “Glycemic Control and Oral Health Outcomes in Patients With Diabetes” June 2024, Doi: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11196857/
- Kanako Toda, Koji Mizutani et.al “Effects of oral health instructions on glycemic control and oral health status of periodontitis patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus” March 2019 Doi: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6562110/
- Clifton O Bingham, Malini Moni et.al “Periodontal disease and rheumatoid arthritis” July 2015 Doi: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4495574/
- Sujata Tungare; Arati G. Paranjpe et.al “Diet and Nutrition to Prevent Dental Problems” July 2023 Doi: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK534248/
- Lawrence Tabak, D.D.S., Ph.D. et.al “Oral Infection to Rheumatoid Arthritis” March 2023 Doi: https://directorsblog.nih.gov/2023/03/07/connecting-the-dots-oral-infection-to-rheumatoid-arthritis/
- Bouchra Sojod et.al “Systemic Lupus Erythematosus and Periodontal Disease” May 2021 Doi: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8125164/
- S A Mathews et.al “Oral manifestations of Sjögren’s syndrome” April 2008 Doi: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18362310/
- J Aging Res, et.al “Dental Health Behaviors, Dentition, and Mortality in the Elderly” June 2011 Doi: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3124861/#:~:text=Edentulous%20individuals%20had%20a%2030,difference%20was%20seen%20in%20men
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