ADA Policy Statement
Oral health and systemic disease
Excellent oral hygiene and regular dental visits can help reduce the risks of chronic diseases.
Your oral health is a window to your overall health
At Leeming Dental, we believe in providing comprehensive care that extends beyond oral health, recognising the vital connection between the mouth and the body. This is reflected in the Australian Dental Association’s (ADA) Policy Statement 2.9 – Oral and Systemic Disease, which highlights increasing evidence that links oral diseases with systemic conditions such as heart disease and diabetes.
Why is this crucial for you?
Many common risk factors, such as poor diet, smoking, and lack of exercise, contribute to both oral diseases and chronic conditions like obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular issues. Although oral disease doesn’t directly cause these conditions, the shared risk factors mean that poor oral health can increase the likelihood of developing them.
Maintaining excellent oral hygiene and visiting your dentist regularly to address issues early can significantly lower your overall health risks. This highlights the importance of preventive care strategies that not only protect your teeth and gums but also support your overall well-being.
What research tells us
Research has consistently demonstrated a connection between periodontal (gum) disease and chronic conditions such as diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and respiratory illnesses. Gum disease can worsen these conditions by contributing to inflammation throughout the body. For example, individuals with diabetes are more likely to develop gum disease, and managing gum health can help control blood sugar levels.
Beyond these well-known links, poor oral health has been associated with other serious conditions, including dementia, chronic kidney disease, and pregnancy complications like pre-term birth and low birth weight. Some studies even suggest a potential link between oral health and certain cancers, further underscoring the importance of maintaining diligent oral hygiene. While the exact nature of these connections is still being studied, the evidence makes it clear that taking care of your mouth plays a vital role in protecting your overall health.
ADA urges focus on oral health for whole-body health
The Australian Dental Association (ADA) calls on all healthcare professionals to understand and address the relationship between oral disease and overall health. This also includes ongoing research to better define the impact of oral health on diseases like diabetes and heart disease.
To ensure a healthier future, the ADA advocates for government support and funding for oral health research and preventive strategies that benefit both oral and general health.
Our commitment to your overall health
As a leading dental practice, we have been offering Oral Pathogen Tests for the past 4 years, providing valuable insights into your overall well-being. This diagnostic tool helps identify specific harmful bacteria in your mouth that can significantly increase your risk of periodontal disease and chronic systemic inflammation. These oral pathogens, once established, can contribute to serious health issues beyond the mouth.
Book your Oral Pathogen Test at Leeming Dental today.
Your oral health is vital not only for a confident smile but also for your overall wellness. We’re here to help you maintain both.
