Routine Dental Visits Help Prevent Systemic Diseases
Maintaining good oral hygiene is not just about preserving a bright smile— it’s vital for overall well-being. Oral care goes beyond preventing cavities and gum disease; it plays a key role in protecting against health issues that become more prevalent as women age. For instance, poor oral health has been linked to systemic conditions such as heart disease and diabetes, making regular brushing, flossing, and dental visits an essential part of a holistic health regimen.
Oral Hygiene and Inflammation
Gum disease can contribute to or worsen cardiovascular disease and metabolic disorders. Research has shown that inflammation caused by oral bacteria can contribute to clogged arteries and increase the risk of heart attacks and strokes. This is particularly concerning for postmenopausal women, who are already at increased risk for cardiovascular disease due to changes in hormone levels. Furthermore, poor oral health can worsen diabetes by making blood sugar levels harder to control, creating a harmful cycle that further endangers overall health. “Bacteria in your mouth that cause gum disease can enter your bloodstream through your oral cavity and lead to atherosclerosis. Routine professional dental cleanings can help remove plaque and calculus that harbor these bacteria,” says Ariel Blanchard, DMD, Director of Dentistry, Weill Cornell Medicine, Division of Dentistry, Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery.
Poor oral hygiene can also impact respiratory health, because inhaling bacteria from infected teeth and gums can lead to lung infections, such as pneumonia, which can be particularly dangerous for older adults. As people age, maintaining oral hygiene becomes even more critical. “Poor oral health can result in poor outcomes and complications after certain surgeries, including cardiac surgeries, and delay the start of certain systemic therapies, such as chemotherapy,” says Dr. Blanchard.
Quality of Life
Oral health is also a vital part of maintaining quality of life. Issues like dry mouth, which can be a side effect of many medications—such as antihistamines, antihypertensives, and antidepressants—increase the risk of tooth decay and gum disease. “Dry mouth can be uncomfortable and affect patients’ day-to-day quality of life, and it can also be an underlying cause of burning mouth syndrome,” says Dr. Blanchard. Burning mouth syndrome is a condition that causes a persistent, uncomfortable burning sensation in the mouth, often affecting the tongue, lips, and gums, without an obvious cause like an infection or allergy.
Tooth loss or pain from cavities or gum disease can make eating difficult, leading to nutritional deficiencies that affect everything from bone density to immune function. In addition to supporting consumption of a balanced diet, maintaining good oral health also helps ensure that women stay active, and continue engaging in social activities, all of which are key components of healthy aging. “Older patients with poor dentitions that are either aesthetically unpleasing or painful often withdraw from social activities, leading to psychological and physical health issues,” says Dr. Blanchard. Dentitions refers to the arrangement or condition of a person’s teeth.
Oral Hygiene Routine
Gum disease progresses gradually and often without noticeable pain. The longer the condition goes unmanaged, the more damage it can cause. Although plaque is the primary cause of gum disease, factors including food particles left between the teeth, smoking, using smokeless tobacco, and having poorly fitted bridges or partial dentures can increase its risk or severity. Regular visits to the dentist, at least twice a year, for professional cleanings enable early detection of any dental issues.
An effective oral hygiene routine involves several key practices to maintain both dental and overall health. First, brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste is essential to prevent cavities and strengthen tooth enamel. Using a soft-bristled toothbrush helps avoid gum irritation, which is more common as gums recede with age. Flossing daily is necessary to remove plaque and food particles between teeth, which can lead to gum disease if left unattended. In addition to brushing and flossing, it’s important to stay well hydrated. To stay hydrated, women over 50 should generally aim to drink around eight cups (64 ounces) of water per day. However, this can vary depending on factors like activity level, climate, and overall health.
Good oral health goes hand in hand with preventing and managing chronic diseases. Recognizing the connections between oral health and systemic conditions underscores the importance of prioritizing regular dental care.
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