Your mouth is the gateway to the rest of the body. This means that maintaining excellent oral health is extremely important to keep up a healthy immune system. In fact, there is a strong correlation between the two. If left untreated, bacteria in your mouth can affect many different essential systems in your body. Continue reading to learn more about the connection between your overall health and what is going on in your mouth.
How Does Poor Oral Health Affect Your Immune System?
It all starts with bacteria. When you have food debris left on your teeth, bacteria grow and can cause a variety of problems like tooth decay and gingivitis. When left untreated, gingivitis can turn into a much more severe form of gum disease called periodontitis. This is a serious infection which requires the help of your immune system and your dentist. Your body will begin to attack the infection to prevent it from spreading.
How Does This Affect the Rest of Your Body?
If you have an abundance of bacteria in your mouth and it leads to an infection, your immune system will do everything it can to protect you from the outside invaders. When your immune response focuses on one part of the body, it cannot focus on others, making it more likely that you become ill or experience another infection in the body. By keeping your oral health in check, your immune system can focus on other parts of the body and keep you healthy.
Remember to always see your dentist regularly. Gum disease is easily reversible in its early stages. Gum disease treatment is available for people who are suffering from periodontal disease.
What Can You Do to Strengthen Your Immune System?
Too keep a strong immune system, it is important to keep up a healthy lifestyle. In fact, many infections go unnoticed for people who are healthy overall. Here are some things to remember when you are trying to maintain your overall health:
- Brush your teeth twice and floss once daily
- Avoid sugary foods and acidic drinks like soda
- Do not use tobacco products
- Wash your hands regularly throughout the day
- Eat a healthy diet
- Exercise
- Get enough sleep every night
- Reduce stress
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Limit your alcohol intake
Remember that a strong immune system starts with strong oral health. By taking these steps, you can maintain a healthy lifestyle and prevent future illnesses.
About the Author
Dr. Andrew Luccio and his team provide many different services at their practice in New Bedford. Dr. Luccio earned his Doctor of Dental Medicine at Tufts University School of Dental Medicine in Boston. After graduating, he was a recipient of the American Academy of Periodontology’s Achievement Award for academic and clinical excellence in periodontics. For more information, visit his website or call (508) 997-1030.
