The Link Between Dental Health and Your Immune System

Your immune system and oral health are interconnected. As the entrance to our body, the mouth makes every effort to ward off anything that could jeopardize our health. Oral hygiene, however, can have serious negative effects on the body if neglected. By maintaining good hygiene and visiting your dental office in Murfreesboro, TN, you can boost your immune system and ensure that you can defend yourself from common infections and diseases.

The Role of Bacteria

Bacteria are largely to blame for the issues of inadequate oral hygiene. For bacteria to proliferate, the mouth is the perfect place. It’s warm and damp, and bacteria have access to plenty of nutrients. To better illustrate the importance of your mouth in your general health, think of your mouth as the start of a lengthy journey. The mouth serves as a route, doorway, or map for bacteria to go to other parts of your body.

How Could It Impact My Immune System?

Food residues left behind after not brushing or flossing let germs fester and proliferate in your gums. When contaminated blood enters your bloodstream, it spreads the bacteria throughout your body and causes gum hypersensitivity and bleeding. Apart from oral health problems, there are other issues that might happen when bacterial development is out of control.

If left unchecked, bacteria have the potential to infect the respiratory system and bloodstream. Gingivitis, the most prevalent type of gum disease, is just a minor condition when compared to periodontitis. A severe form of periodontitis, can grow in the mouth and spread to other parts of the body through circulation.  

If not treated right once, it can trigger an immunological response when it enters the bloodstream, which could start a domino effect that results in numerous health issues.

Together, periodontal disease and other infectious disorders can weaken the immune system, making a person more vulnerable to illnesses like the flu and the common cold (virus).

A Weakened Immune System Can Increase Your Risk for Gum Disease

Your immune system can influence your oral health in a similar way to how your oral health can influence your immune system. A compromised immune system can make you more susceptible to developing gum disease and even oral thrush, a fungal infection of the mouth.

Why Does This Occur?  

Your risk for specific oral health issues rises when the immune system isn't able to effectively combat the bacteria that might cause gum and other diseases. This proves that having a healthy immune system is vital for maintaining your overall health as well as your smile.

Can Good Oral Health Boost My Immune System?

Although brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing at least once won't directly stop the spread of bacteria or viruses, they can benefit your oral health. Your risk of immunosuppression from periodontal disease can be considerably decreased by bolstering your body's capacity to combat microorganisms.  

Additionally, it's crucial to visit a dental office in Murfreesboro, TN, at least once every six months. Remember that proactive care is preferable to reactive care. Ask your doctor how to support your microbial balance more effectively if you are an older patient.

Need a Dental Office in Murfreesboro, TN?

Your mouth and overall health are intertwined, it’s important to highlight the significance of oral care for the rest of your body as well as vice versa. Regular dental checkups will help you prevent oral illness and may even improve the function of your immune system as a result! Call us now here at Stonetrace Family Dental for an appointment!