Healthy teeth boost your whole-body health
Kids’ teeth get a lot of attention. We teach them to brush and floss. We take them to the dentist regularly. And we (try to) limit sugary treats. It makes sense — their teeth are developing right along with the rest of their bodies.
But aside from controlling bad breath, why do older adults need good oral health? Because cavities, gum disease and tooth loss affect more than just your mouth.
The link between oral health and overall health
The connection between dentistry and medical care might not seem obvious, but as the entrance to the digestive and respiratory tracts, your mouth is also the doorway for disease-causing germs. Good oral care helps keep those germs under control.
Healthy mouth, happy heart
For adults, oral health can play a part in cardiovascular disease. Studies show a link between inflammation and infections caused by oral germs and coronary artery disease, high blood pressure, clogged arteries and strokes.
Those with existing heart conditions should be particularly careful about oral health. They’re at higher risk for endocarditis, an inflammation of the lining of heart valves or the heart chambers caused by a bacterial infection that can happen during some dental procedures.
“Both medical and dental professionals are on the same team in caring for patients, with similar goals in mind for better health, lowering inflammation and decreasing cardiovascular risk for events like heart attack and stroke,” says Kristopher Pfirman, DO, Geisinger cardiologist. “Increasing collaboration between dentistry and medicine will achieve the best possible health outcomes for our patients.”
Keep smiling, keep thriving
For older adults, healthy mouths are just as crucial as they are during other stages of life.
Some chronic diseases, like diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis and osteoporosis, can affect your tooth and gum health. Medications taken for chronic conditions may also have side effects (such as dry mouth) that result in dental problems.
Poor oral health can contribute to chronic conditions, too, like heart issues. And untreated cavities and gum disease make it hard to chew properly, interfering with nutrition and increasing the risk of infections, says George Avetian, DO, primary care physician at Geisinger 65 Forward.
One of the biggest barriers to oral care Dr. Avetian sees is cost. “If a senior doesn’t have dental coverage or has poor coverage, they probably aren’t going to go to a dentist until there’s a serious problem. And delaying treatment can compound health issues,” he says. He adds that patients with heart issues must have a dental evaluation and treatment before having surgery to correct them.
Seeing a dentist regularly, even if you have dentures, is essential as you age. Thorough cleanings and checkups can head off diseases, leading to better nutrition, a more confident social life and a healthier mind and body in your golden years. And with the average life span increasing, taking care of your teeth means you’re more likely to keep them your whole life.
Dr. Avetian stresses that everyone at any age should have a dental checkup and cleaning twice a year and maintain oral hygiene by brushing and flossing twice a day. Good oral health is the key to a healthier you.
Sources: U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, American Heart Association
“Sixty-four percent of people age 65 and older have moderate to severe periodontal disease,” says George Avetian, DO, primary care physician at Geisinger 65 Forward. “Not only does gum disease lead to cavities and impaired eating, it also can cause systemic disease and heart issues such as endocarditis or inflammation of the heart valves.”
This story originally appeared in the summer issue of PA Health, our quarterly full-color magazine filled with wellness tips, inspiring stories and more.
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