Every dentist will tell you that there is a close link between our gut microbiome and oral health, with trillions of good bacteria living throughout your digestive system.  Your microbiome influences your digestion, immune system, metabolism, and hormones. Research shows it can even play a role in your daily moods and emotions. Your dentist will be most concerned with an imbalance in your microbiome that can affect your oral health.

Microbiome Imbalance Affects Your Mouth

Most people are surprised that the health of their gut has an impact on their oral health. If you have too few good bacteria or too many harmful ones, this imbalance sends an inflammatory signal to your immune system, causing various symptoms to occur throughout the body – including the mouth. In fact, we can monitor dental health by examining gut health. 

Oral Health and the Leaky Gut

Gut dysbiosis is an imbalance in gut bacteria. Healthy patients have enough beneficial gut bacteria to keep the gut lining functional and robust. This balance ensures the immune system, which resides mainly in the gut, is strong. However, if there is an overgrowth of harmful bacteria that causes inflammation and a leak in the intestinal lining, a number of symptoms can occur, including those that affect your oral health. Here are some conditions caused by a “leaky” gut.

Gingivitis

This inflammation of the gums occurs when a film of bacteria accumulates on the teeth. Also known as plaque, it is a type of periodontal disease. When left untreated, gingivitis can develop into periodontitis, a more severe condition that can lead to tooth loss.  

Dental Decay

This problem occurs when the gut leaks and allows undigested material and toxins to move freely through the body. With this weakening of the immune system, your mouth is less capable of fighting off the invaders that cause tooth decay. A key component of tooth decay is toxicitiy that can even enter the bloodstream.

Tooth Decay in Children

Dental caries is the most common oral infection in children. Once this tooth infection sets in, there is no reversing it. Then the tooth decay progresses as the child grows older. It may also lead to oral afflictions like thrush and halitosis.

Reducing Oral Risk from a Leaky Gut

Here are some easy ways to reduce the risk of poor oral health from a leaky gut:

Consume Fiber-Rich Foods

By eating fiber-rich foods like beans, lentils, apples, and broccoli, you can naturally help keep your teeth clean. Also, including foods in your diet that are probiotic-rich will help with your gut health, as well.

Brush and Floss

Good dental hygiene, like daily brushing and flossing, will ensure healthy gums. They remove food particles and reduce plaque buildup around the teeth and tongue.

Gum Disease Awareness

If you notice oral symptoms like bloody or inflamed gums, don’t ignore them. They can be a sign of severe underlying dental issues that need attention. 

Regular Dental Check-ups

Come see us for a dental checkup regularly. Teeth cleanings are essential for quality dental care and health. If you have high blood sugar levels, bleeding gums, bad breath, sensitive teeth, or a bitter taste in your mouth, this may be the signs of digestive issues. 

Contact us today for any oral health concerns.