oral hygiene Archives - Amazing Health Advances

These 3 Unexpected Dangers of Gum Disease (Will Make You Want to Go Brush Your Teeth)

The AHA! Team — Mon, 19 May 2025 05:34:15 +0000

Sara Middleton via NaturalHealth365 – According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), nearly half of all adults have at least some degree of gum disease. Also called periodontal disease, gum disease is caused by the build-up of a sticky substance called plaque on the teeth. Simply put, plaque is ground zero for bacteria – which can irritate and inflame your gums. You may have heard a rumor that having bad teeth and gums is associated with heart disease. Unfortunately, that’s not even the whole picture. It turns out that poor oral health is also linked with many other life-altering (and sometimes life-threatening) conditions. Having gum disease is more dangerous than most people think Gum disease is a frustrating and painful enough condition on its own. Common signs and symptoms include bloody, red, painful, and swollen gums, bad breath, tooth sensitivity, and pain with chewing. But research shows that gum disease has also been associated with erectile dysfunction, respiratory problems, and the following serious health concerns: Heart disease A major theory explaining why poor oral health is correlated with heart disease – the number one killer in the United States – is that inflammation in damaged and infected gums can set off a cascade of inflammation throughout the body, including the cardiovascular system. Another theory is that bacteria from the mouth can leech into the bloodstream via infected teeth and gums, leading to infections within the heart. A 2017 study published in the Journal of Oral Microbiology found that P. gingivalis, a type of bacteria commonly found in the mouth, is the most common bacteria in the arteries that supply blood to the heart muscle! Cancer The link between inflammation and chronic health disease is too strong to ignore. Gum disease, which is associated with inflammation, offers another plausible explanation for why research shows poor oral health is associated with a significantly increased cancer risk. Another possible explanation supported by science is that bacteria in the mouth can produce enzymes that promote tumor and cancer cell growth. Cognitive impairment Studies have shown that the more teeth you lose, the greater your risk for cognitive decline as you age. Research has also shown that bacteria commonly found in the mouth can also be found in the brains of people with Alzheimer’s disease, suggesting a possible correlation between poor oral health and this life-threatening neurodegenerative disorder. A few quick tips for improving oral health – and overall health and longevity Take care of your teeth – you’ll regret it if you don’t! Keep your dentist’s advice in mind by practicing these good oral health habits: Brush your teeth at least twice daily, ideally after each meal. Brush your teeth for at least two minutes using gentle motions – away from the gum tissue. Floss daily. Get your teeth checked at least once (or more) per year – depending on your health status. Avoid consuming foods and beverages with a lot of sugar – bacteria love sugar as much as humans do. Use a Hydro Floss® Oral Irrigator, on a regular basis. Editor’s note: To learn more about the dangers of poor oral health and (more importantly) how to protect your health, own the Holistic Oral Health Summit created by NaturalHealth365 Programs. Sources for this article include: NIH.gov MedicalNewsToday.com CDC.gov NIH.gov NIH.gov NIH.gov Wiley.com To read the original article click here.

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Poor Oral Health Affects the Heart in Multiple Ways

The AHA! Team — Mon, 03 Mar 2025 06:21:40 +0000

Sara Middleton via NaturalHealth365 – Did you know that nearly half of all people over 30 have some degree of gum disease? In fact, even the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) admits, many Americans either already have poor oral health or are well on their way to developing it. This may come as a surprise, but bad teeth and foul breath aren’t the only problems gum disease causes. A September meta-analysis and systematic review published in Cardiovascular Research found that having periodontitis – an advanced form of gum disease – increases your chances of having hypertension, a major heart attack risk factor. Furthermore, a November 2023 review in Periodontology 2000 examined the role of periodontitis as an independent risk factor for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, highlighting the need to address this overlooked connection to reduce cardiovascular health risks. 3 shocking ways poor oral health affects heart health The scientific and medical communities overwhelmingly agree that poor oral health can damage your heart and increase your risk for high blood pressure, heart attacks, and strokes. But how? In the Cardiovascular Research paper, researchers analyzed 81 studies of the link between gum disease and hypertension (high blood pressure). Based on this large collection of data, they found that moderate to severe gum disease increased a person’s risk of hypertension by 22%. Severe gum disease increases a person’s risk by as much as 49%! In other words, poor oral health can significantly increase your risk for hypertension, which we know is a major stroke and heart attack risk factor. Investigators believe the increased inflammation caused by gum disease and oral bacteria are major phenomena behind this link. Their findings have major implications. They note that even just a modest rise in blood pressure (say, +5 mmHg) may increase a person’s risk of death from heart attack or stroke by as much as 25%! And as if this isn’t heartbreaking enough, poor oral health can also increase a person’s risk for diabetes, cancer, and (in pregnant women) low birth weight and premature delivery. Now for the good news: Proper oral healthcare can improve your lifespan A cohort study published in the Journal of Aging Research found that brushing teeth every night, flossing daily, and visiting the dentist regularly were associated with increased longevity in older adults. Even though this study has some flaws, the findings make sense: keeping your teeth and gums healthy can reduce your risk of the many health problems associated with poor health, thus increasing your life expectancy. Plus, it’s reasonable to say that a person committed enough to practicing healthy teeth habits daily is also likely to practice other healthy habits, like exercising, avoiding sugary drinks and foods, and not smoking. What’s the takeaway? Be the kind of person who brushes and flosses daily – it could save your life! Understand the top warning signs of gum disease You might assume that if you have gum disease, you’d know it. True, most of the signs and symptoms of gum disease are fairly noticeable, but some – like a change in how your teeth fit together when you bite down or persistent bad breath – are easy to miss. Here are the other top warning signs to look out for: Gums that bleed while brushing, eating hard foods, and flossing Red, tender, and swollen gums Gums that recede from the teeth, which makes the teeth look longer Pain, tenderness, or sores in your mouth Loose teeth Even if you think your teeth and gums are perfectly healthy, you should still visit a qualified, biological (or holistic) dentist at least once or twice yearly. Naturally, if you have serious oral health issues, you may need to see a dentist more often for checkups. At home, oil pulling, sea salt rinses, hydrofloss, and herbal mouthwashes can also be helpful. Editor’s note: Discover the best ways to avoid the threats posed by poor oral health, own the Holistic Oral Health Summit created by NaturalHealth365 Programs. Sources for this article include: NIH.gov Medicalnewstoday.com Medicalnewstoday.com Academic.oup.com Perio.org NIH.gov To read the original article click here.

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Oral-Gut Axis: How Mouth Bacteria Impact Your Overall Health

The AHA! Team — Wed, 28 Aug 2024 08:38:47 +0000

Priyanjana Pramanik, MSc. via News-Medical – A new study found that the prevalence of nicotine pouch use was low in U.S. adults despite a 641% increase in sales of the products between 2019 and 2022. A recent review in the journal Nature Reviews Microbiology explored the interactions between the oral and gut microbiomes and their collective effect on human health. Authors Jack A. Gilbert of the University of California San Diego and Erica M. Hartmann of Northwestern University found that while oral microorganisms may enter the gastrointestinal tract and contribute to gut dysbiosis, the mechanisms and broader implications of these interactions require further study. The importance of the gut microbiome The human body hosts a vast diversity of microorganisms that play a vital role in health by supporting the immune system and defending against pathogens. However, they may also contribute to chronic diseases. Dysbiosis, or disruptions in these microbial communities, is linked to metabolic and autoimmune disorders and gastrointestinal issues. The gut and oral cavity are two key areas with dense microbial populations. The oral microbiome is influenced by food and environment and has been linked to oral diseases like gingivitis and periodontitis, affecting systemic health by influencing microbial populations in the digestive and respiratory systems. The gut microbiome, shaped by genetics, diet, and lifestyle, is crucial for immune responses and infection prevention. Understanding the interactions between the gut and oral microbiomes is necessary for grasping their impact on diseases like colorectal cancer (CRC) and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). The oral cavity is a gateway The gastrointestinal tract begins at the mouth and extends to the anus, including organs like the liver, pancreas, and gallbladder. The oral cavity, highly vascularized and home to diverse microbial communities, serves as the primary entry point for microbes into the body. It hosts over 770 bacterial species in different microenvironments, such as the buccal mucosa, tongue, and dental plaques. Key genera include Streptococcus, Veillonella, and Prevotella. The gut microbiome, primarily anaerobic and comprising species like Bacteroides and Ruminococcus, shares some taxa with the oral cavity, but distinct physical and chemical barriers usually prevent oral microbes from colonizing the gut. However, under conditions like low gastric acidity or antibiotic use, oral bacteria can migrate to the gut, potentially contributing to diseases. Understanding this oral-gut microbial transfer is crucial for exploring its role in disease and health. The mouth-gut connection The oral cavity, susceptible to conditions like dental caries, oral cancers, and periodontal diseases (gingivitis and periodontitis), plays a significant role in overall health. Periodontal diseases involve the destruction of tissues around the teeth due to an inflammatory response to plaque and microbes. Gingivitis, a reversible inflammation of the gums, can progress to periodontitis if untreated, causing deeper tissue damage and bone loss. Research suggests a strong link between oral health and gut diseases. Periodontal pathogens, such as P. gingivalis and F. nucleatum, can migrate from the mouth to the gut, contributing to conditions like IBD. These bacteria promote inflammation and disrupt the gut’s microbial balance. Studies have found higher levels of oral bacteria in the guts of individuals with IBD, indicating the mouth-gut axis’s role in these diseases. Additionally, the oral microbiome has been associated with CRC. Oral bacteria like F. nucleatum can influence tumor growth and treatment resistance in CRC. This connection underscores the importance of oral health in preventing and managing systemic diseases. Understanding these links can lead to better prevention and treatment strategies for gut diseases and cancers. Oral health and overall health Poor oral health, especially periodontitis, can significantly impact the entire body. Oral bacteria can travel through the gastrointestinal tract and bloodstream, contributing to various diseases. Periodontitis causes low-grade systemic inflammation, which can disrupt the body’s health and promote diseases like IBD and cardiovascular diseases. It increases levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines in the blood, indicating an ongoing inflammatory response. One mechanism through which oral health affects the body is through the bone marrow, where inflammation from periodontitis boosts the production of immune cells, leading to heightened inflammatory responses elsewhere. Another mechanism involves periodontal bacteria directly affecting distant organs by releasing toxins that promote inflammation and diseases like rheumatoid arthritis and atherosclerosis. Additionally, oral health impacts the gut directly. Bacteria from the mouth can colonize the gut, exacerbating conditions like IBD. Treating periodontal disease can reduce systemic inflammation and improve chronic disease symptoms, demonstrating the bidirectional relationship between oral health and systemic diseases. Addressing oral health is thus crucial for overall health and managing systemic conditions. Conclusions Changes in oral bacteria can affect gut health, leading to systemic inflammation and various diseases. The relationship between the oral cavity and gut is bidirectional, but the exact mechanisms remain unclear. More research is needed to understand how oral bacteria influence chronic diseases and to develop better models for studying these interactions. Future studies should resolve the oral-gut microbiome axis at the strain level to confirm the role of oral bacteria in chronic diseases and examine the role of translocated strains in gut microbiome-linked diseases through in vivo and in vitro models. To read the original article click here.

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Oral Hygiene and Severity of COVID-19 – the Connection

AHA Publisher — Mon, 06 Jul 2020 07:00:51 +0000

Dr. Ananya Mandal, MD via News-Medical Net – British researchers have found a link between poor oral hygiene and severity of COVID-19 disease caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection. The study from researchers Victoria Sampson, from the dental practice 38 Devonshire Street, London, Nawar Kamona from the Centre for Nutrition Education & Lifestyle Management (CNELM), London and Ariane Sampson from Orthodontics, Cambridge University Hhospital Trust, United Kingdom collaborated to find the connection between the severity of the infection and poor oral hygiene. Their study titled, “Could there be a link between oral hygiene and the severity of SARS-CoV-2 infections?” was published in the latest issue of the journal British Dental Journal. The COVID-19 Pandemic Since December last year, there have been steadily increasing numbers of SARS-CoV-2 or novel coronavirus infection that causes COVID-19 diesase. The World Health Organization (WHO) declared COVID-19 a global emergency on the 30th of January 2020 and, on the 11th of March 2020, declared it a pandemic when this highly contagious virus infected populations across the world. As of today, globally, 10,434,385 people have been infected and there have been 509,779 deaths attributed to the virus around the world due to this infection. What Was This Study About? Researchers to date have identified several risk factors that are associated with severe COVID-19 course of disease and outcome. While many patients infected with the virus recover without complications, some may need hospitalization, oxygen supplementation, and even ventilation. Some of the risk factors associated with poor outcome of the disease include high blood pressure, diabetes obesity, and heart disease. The team of researchers explains that 52 percent of the deaths due to COVID-19 also occur in healthy individuals, and the cause behind this is unclear. They wrote that the main complications of COVID-19 include “blood clots, pneumonia, sepsis, septic shock, and ARDS (Acute respiratory distress syndrome).” These complications are seen mainly among those with comorbidities and bacterial overload, they wrote. Bacteria and COVID-19 Outcome The team speculates that there may be a connection between SARS- CoV-2 infection and “bacterial load.” They tried to explore if high levels of bacteria or bacterial superinfections and complications of bacterial infections such as pneumonia, sepsis, and respiratory distress syndrome could be associated with poor outcome from COVID-19. Oral Hygiene and COVID-19 This study explored the complications of COVID-19 seen among those with poor oral health and periodontal disease. The oral microbiome or the microbial flora of the mouth was explored and its connection with the COVID-19 outcome was analyzed. The authors wrote, “We explore the connection between high bacterial load in the mouth and post-viral complications, and how improving oral health may reduce the risk of complications from COVID-19.” The authors of the study wrote that during lung infection, there is a risk of aspirating the oral secretions into the lungs, which could cause infection. Some of the bacteria present in the mouth that could cause such infections include “Porphyromonas gingivalis, Fusobacterium nucleatum, Prevotella intermedia,” they wrote. They explained that periodontitis or infection of the gums is one of the most prevalent causes of harmful bacteria in the mouth. These bacteria lead to the formation of cytokines such as Interleukin 1 (IL1) and Tumor necrosis factor (TNF), which can be detected in the saliva and can reach the lungs leading to infection within them. Thus, the researchers wrote, “inadequate oral hygiene can increase the risk of inter-bacterial exchanges between the lungs and the mouth, increasing the risk of respiratory infections and potentially post-viral bacterial complications.” Results of the Study The team wrote, “Good oral hygiene has been recognized as a means to prevent airway infections in patients, especially in those over the age of 70”. Those with periodontal disease are at a 25 percent raised risk of heart disease, thrice the risk of getting diabetes, and 20 percent raised risk of getting high blood pressure, the researchers wrote. These are all risk factors of severe COVID-19 they wrote. Conclusions and Implications This study concludes that 20 percent of the patients with COVID-19 progress to severe illness with high levels of “inflammatory markers (IL-2, IL-6, IL-10), bacteria, and neutrophil-to-lymphocyte count”. They noted that the oral microbial environment and COVID-19 could be linked. The four essential risk factors for severe COVID-19, diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, and obesity, are also associated with poor oral hygiene, they wrote. They recommend “oral hygiene be maintained, if not improved, during a SARS-CoV-2 infection in order to reduce the bacterial load in the mouth and the potential risk of bacterial superinfection.” These precautions are particularly important for those with diabetes, heart disease hypertension, they wrote. To read the original article click here.

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Does Oral Bacteria Affect Colon Cancer?

AHA Publisher — Wed, 03 Jun 2020 07:00:48 +0000

Ratan-NM, M. Pharm. via News-Medical Net – The colon is a part of the digestive tract whose primary function is the absorption of water and nutrients from food. Colon cancer is a leading cause of mortality worldwide. Recent evidence suggests that microbiota alternations in the gut are directly associated with colon cancer – it is found that oral bacterium leads to the progression of cancer cells in the colon. Precancerous cells or early undetected cancer cells facilitate the growth and progression of oral bacteria. What Are the Causes of Colon Cancer? Colon cancer is caused by genetic mutations, which lead to the formation of polyps. Polyps are precancerous cells, and polyp’s formation is the first stage of development of colon cancer. Initially, colon cancers start with benign (noncancerous) lumps, which are known as adenomatous polyps. Genetic mutations develop up over some time – polyps may take around 20 years to develop into cancerous cells. However, external factors such as gut microbiota play a pivotal role in the progression of colon cancer and make it more aggressive. The micro-organisms present in the human digestive tract play a significant role in digestion and metabolism. But dysbiosis in mouth microbiota may trigger the formation of tumor cells and enhance the progression of cancer cells. The most common oral bacterium associated with colon cancer is Fusobacterium nucleatum (F. nucleatum), which accumulates with tooth decay. F. nucleatum is an anaerobic, gram-negative bacterium that is present in the digestive tract. The stable temperature and pH of the oral cavity promotes the growth of F. nucleatum, which accumulates in the periodontal plaque. A comparison of healthy individuals and patients with colon cancer showed that colon cancer patients have abundant F. nucleatum (oral bacterium) compared to healthy individuals. The presence of F. nucleatum in the gut promotes the growth of cancerous cells in the colon; however, these bacteria do not affect noncancerous cells. What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Colon Cancer? The most common symptom of colon cancer is abdominal distension without any weight gain. Abdominal pain is infrequent in the case of colon cancer. Frequency of bowel movements changes along with some weight loss. Vomiting and nausea of unknown cause are also common during colon cancer. How Do Oral Bacteria Cause Colon Cancer? F. nucleatum is present in the oral cavity, but it can enter the bloodstream. Through the bloodstream, it enters the colon and other parts of the digestive tract. F. nucleatum produces a molecule termed FadA adhesin, which turns on several genes in the colon and results in the formation of cancerous cells in the colon. FadA adhesin protein speeds up the formation and growth of cancerous cells in the colon. FadA adhesin protein has its effect only on cancerous cells. They do not affect the healthy cells in the colon. The probable reason for this is that healthy cells do not produce the proteins in response to FadA adhesion. F. nucleatum leads to the growth of cancer cells only in the case of a few individuals, and they do not affect all individuals. This is due to the different community nature of oral bacteria and the multifactorial etiology of cancer cells. Management of Oral Bacterium in Colon Cancer A significant reduction in the number of F. nucleatum can enhance the recovery process in patients with colon cancer. Hence, improved oral hygiene plays a crucial role in limiting the growth and spread of cancerous cells. A scientific approach to getting rid of colon cancer progression is through targeting the signaling pathway of oral bacteria. Disruption of the signaling path or suppression of FadA adhesin protein synthesis can significantly delay the speedy growth and spread of cancerous cells. Another approach to manage colon cancer is the use of probiotics. Administration of probiotics or prebiotics significantly reduces the composition and number of F. nucleatum. This also helps in controlling the progression of cancerous cells in the colon. Antibiotics, along with other antitumor drugs, are also given to patients with colon cancer. Antibiotics have shown promising results in the management of colon cancer by destroying the F. nucleatum. To read the original article click here.

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