Did you know your oral health could silently be affecting your heart, brain, and overall well-being? For many, the mouth feels like a separate part of the body—until the pain of a cavity or gum issue arises. However, understanding the connection between your oral health and the rest of your body could be key to preventing life-altering diseases such as heart attacks, strokes, Alzheimer's, and more. This October, during Oral Systemic Health Month, it’s important to take a deeper look at how your oral health impacts your overall health—something Dr. McClatchie and her team focus on year-round.
The Oral-Systemic Connection: Why It Matters
Decades of research have uncovered a powerful link between oral health and chronic inflammatory diseases. Your mouth is home to millions of bacteria, some of which are beneficial, while others can lead to harmful inflammation. Do your gums bleed when you brush or floss? This is the most common sign of periodontal disease, which affects nearly 80% of adults over 35. Left unchecked, the high-risk oral pathogens that cause gum disease enter your bloodstream and spread throughout your body.
Once in your bloodstream, these pathogens inflame your 60,000 miles of arteries, increasing the risk of plaque buildup and atherosclerosis (thickening of the artery walls). Over time, this process restricts blood flow and heightens the chances of a stroke or heart attack. Research shows that people with gum disease have a significantly higher risk of developing heart disease, Alzheimer’s, diabetes, and other serious conditions.
How Your Oral Health Affects Your Brain
There’s also a growing body of research linking oral health and cognitive decline, particularly Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. Certain strains of oral bacteria, like spirochetes, have been found in the brains of Alzheimer’s patients. Preventing gum disease and working with a collaborative healthcare team focused on the root causes of Alzheimer's—such as the ReCode method—has shown promise in reducing this risk. It can even reverse symptoms in some cases. This is why, at Complete Health Dentistry of Columbus, we are certified ReCode providers.
How Can You Protect Yourself?
Taking a proactive approach to oral health is essential for protecting your overall well-being. While brushing and flossing are the foundation of good oral hygiene, they may not be enough to fully prevent the systemic effects of this harmful oral bacteria. Regular dental wellness appointments, professional cleanings, saliva tests, and periodontal assessments are crucial for identifying potential issues before they develop into serious conditions.
A Holistic Approach to Your Oral Health
At Complete Health Dentistry of Columbus, we believe that a healthy mouth is the key to a healthy body. Our unique collaboration with The Heart Attack and Stroke Prevention Center of Central Ohio allows us to take a complete root cause approach, utilizing the BaleDoneen Method to prevent heart attacks and strokes. We also use the ReCode Program to address the root causes in the mouth that contribute to cognitive decline–pathogenic bacteria, airway issues, potentially dangerous amalgam, and endodontic infections.
If you're ready to take control of your health and reduce your risk of these life-altering diseases, schedule an appointment today by calling us at (614) 885-3602. Your mouth holds the key to a healthier life—let's unlock it together.
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