Diseases Linked to Dental Health Atlanta, GA
Contrary to popular belief, oral and systemic health are inextricably linked. This oral-systemic link is an essential part of a comprehensive dental care plan. Skilled general dentists make sure to account for any diseases linked to dental health.
General dental care is available at Downtown Atlanta Dentistry in Atlanta and the surrounding area. Our team can provide you with a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific needs, regardless of any other medical conditions you may have. Call us today at (404) 999-1407 to schedule an appointment or learn more about our services.
Habitual vs. Genetic Reasons for Oral Conditions
A number of oral health conditions stem from habit and behavior. The leading causes of many oral concerns are smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, poor nutrition, and inadequate brushing, flossing, and rinsing. Genetics also plays a role in oral health conditions, ranging from hereditary traits to behaviors during pregnancy.
How to Prevent These Issues
Minor dental concerns, such as cavities and caries, often stem from genes or women who had untreated cavities or caries during pregnancy. However, severe oral conditions, such as gum disease or oral cancer, are often combinations of genes and behavior and worsen through improper hygienic habits. It is possible to diagnose the majority of oral conditions at a young age through preventative treatments that combat disease and decay at the root. The most crucial step in preventing oral and systemic health concerns is a good oral hygiene routine.
Oral Hygiene and Dietary Habits
A part of living a healthy, balanced life is following good oral hygiene and consuming a healthy diet. A good oral hygiene routine entails these habits:
- Brushing twice a day
- Flossing once a day
- Using an antibacterial (antiseptic) mouthwash
- Going to a dentist every six months for checkups and cleanings
- Replacing toothbrushes (or electric toothbrush heads) every three months
A tooth-friendly diet can also help strengthen teeth and gums against decay and disease. These foods include dairy products, leafy greens, crunchy fruits and vegetables, nuts, and whole grains. Patients should do their best to avoid to limit sugary and acidic foods and drinks. Instead, they should stay hydrated with fluoridated water.
“A part of living a healthy, balanced life is following good oral hygiene and consuming a healthy diet.”
Heart Health & Oral Health
As stated by Mayo Clinic, periodontal disease increases a patient‘s risk of developing a heart condition. More specifically, clogged arteries, heart disease, and stroke are likely to be associated with any inflammation and infections caused by oral bacteria. This is especially true of patients with artificial heart valves.
Inflammation associated with oral bacteria may also cause endocarditis, an infection of the endocardium, the inner lining of the heart chambers or valves. Usually, this occurs due to bacteria or other germs spreading from other parts of the body. As the mouth acts as a natural entry point for bacteria, the oral-systemic link here should come as no surprise.
“As stated by Mayo Clinic, periodontal disease increases a patient‘s risk of developing a heart condition.”
Gut Health, Immunodeficiencies, & Oral Health
Though research on oral microbiomes is still expanding, existing literature makes it clear that it can cause both oral and systemic conditions. When the oral microbiome‘s equilibrium is disturbed, disease-causing pathogens may manifest. These pathogens may make their way throughout the rest of the body in return.
This poses an especially big risk for those with immunodeficiencies or conditions that weaken the body‘s immune system. There are over 300 types of immunodeficiencies, many of which are associated with malnutrition and poor oral hygiene. According to one study, bacterial plaque-related periodontal diseases also seem to be especially sensitive to the innate system‘s primary deficiencies.
“There are over 300 types of immunodeficiencies, many of which are associated with malnutrition and poor oral hygiene.”
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Prenatal Oral Health
Oral healthcare is especially important during the prenatal period, as bacteria can now affect both the mother and the unborn fetus. In one study, women who did not receive dental care proved to be 15% more likely to experience preterm delivery, likely due to infection and inflammation associated with untreated dental disease.
Periodontal disease during pregnancy should be treated with the same severity as any other type of infection. At least one study suggests similarities between oral microbiota and opportunistic pathogens in the lower genital tract that may affect the labor process. Additionally, women with periodontal disease were up to seven times more likely to have a baby born too early and too small.
“Periodontal disease during pregnancy should be treated with the same severity as any other type of infection.”
Questions Answered on This Page
Q. Are oral conditions primarily habitual or genetic?
Q. What is the link between heart disease and oral health?
Q. Why is the oral microbiome important to systemic health?
Q. What is the link between oral health and premature births?
People Also Ask
Q. Am I at high risk for developing oral cancer?
Q. What lifestyle factors can trigger gum bleeding?
Q. What are the signs of gum disease?
Treatments for Those Suffering
Prevention
A basic understanding of the oral-systemic connection is integral in addressing health conditions and their effects on the body. A well-balanced, healthy lifestyle consists of a diet low in sugar and high in fruits and vegetables, cutting out all forms of tobacco, reducing alcohol intake, and brushing teeth twice daily with an optimal amount of fluoride (1000 to 1500 ppm). Fluoride is a naturally-occurring mineral that protects the tooth's enamel and is crucial for maintaining good oral hygiene.
Treatments
Minor treatments, such as cavities and caries, require minimally-invasive treatments that remove the infection or decay and are covered with a filling, crown, or sealant. More invasive procedures, such as flap surgery, bone grafting, extractions, and implants, are performed for gum disease, oral cancers, flap disease, or other severe conditions. The earlier a condition is diagnosed, the more effective and successful the treatment is.
Frequently Asked Questions About Diseases Linked to Dental Health
Q. Why is patient education important?
A. We believe that dentist-patient relationships should be collaborative, meaning the patient takes an active part in their own dental care. Many patients do not understand the link between oral health and their systemic health conditions. Fortunately, patient education can empower them to make informed decisions about their dental and general health.
Q. Is there a link between chronic inflammation and periodontal disease?
A. Yes. Chronic gum inflammation is one of the top causes of periodontal diseases. When periodontal disease occurs, it creates pockets between the gums and teeth and fills them with bacteria, plaque, and tartar. If left untreated, these pockets become deeper over time, leading the inflammation to spread to other parts of the body.
Q. How does smoking factor into the oral-systemic connection?
A. Tobacco products affect the oral cavity just as they affect all other systems of the body. It allows numerous chemicals to enter the body and also allows bacteria to flow through several other bodily systems. Additionally, it limits saliva flow, which causes bacteria to stick to the teeth and gums. This may lead to plaque and infections.
Q. Can a general dentist identify symptoms of systemic disease during a dental checkup?
A. Many systemic diseases can cause tooth decay and tooth loss. Many are also linked to periodontal disease, which is associated with harmful bacteria linked to various conditions. If your medical, family, or dental history indicates risk factors, our team may recommend scheduling an appointment with your primary care provider for a medical diagnosis. Additionally, we can conduct oral cancer screenings to catch the disease in its early stages and refer you to a specialist for additional treatment.
Q. What is the healthy mouth baseline and what is its role in general dentistry?
A. The healthy mouth baseline is what the mouth should look like when it is in ideal health. We will go over this baseline with you during your initial consultation and compare and contrast it to your own mouth. Then, our team will devise a treatment plan custom-made to your unique needs.
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Dental Terminology
Learn More Today
If you are interested in better understanding the link between oral and overall health, call us at 404-999-1407 to set up an appointment.
Helpful Related Links
- American Dental Association (ADA). Glossary of Dental Clinical Terms. 2026
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