Jaw pain? Know when it’s time to see your dentist

Jaw pain? Know when it’s time to see your dentist

by | May 12, 2025 | Dental Emergencies, Mouthguard, Oral Conditions and Issues, Oral Links to General Health, Splints & Trays

Do you wake up with a sore jaw? Struggle to chew your favourite foods? Nagging discomfort might be worse than just annoying—it could signal an underlying dental or medical issue that needs professional attention. While occasional jaw pain may come and go, persistent or worsening discomfort is your body’s way of signalling that something isn’t right.

Understanding the possible causes and knowing when to see your dentist can make all the difference in preventing complications and finding lasting relief. Don’t wait until the pain takes over. Learn what your jaw pain might be telling you and how to take action.

What’s behind jaw pain

Jaw pain can stem from various dental and non-dental conditions. If you’re experiencing persistent discomfort, one of these issues may be the culprit:

Jaw pain

Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD/TMJ dysfunction): The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) connects your jaw to your skull, allowing smooth movement for talking and chewing. If the joint becomes inflamed, misaligned, or overused, it can cause pain, stiffness, clicking sounds, or difficulty opening and closing the mouth.

Bruxism (teeth grinding or clenching): Many people unconsciously grind or clench their teeth, especially during sleep. Over time, this habit can strain the jaw muscles, cause headaches, wear down teeth, and lead to persistent jaw pain.

Dental issues: Cavities, gum disease, abscesses, or misaligned teeth can all contribute to jaw discomfort. If you’re experiencing pain alongside tooth sensitivity, swelling, or redness, a dental checkup is essential.

Impacted wisdom teeth: If wisdom teeth fail to emerge properly due to lack of space, they can exert pressure on surrounding teeth and tissues, leading to pain, swelling, and even infection.

Arthritis: Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis can affect the jaw joint, causing stiffness, pain, and difficulty with movement.

Infections or sinus problems: Infections in the teeth, gums, or sinuses can lead to pain in the upper jaw, especially if swelling and pressure develop near the molars.

Injury or trauma: A blow to the face, a fall, or a sports injury can result in jaw fractures, dislocations, or muscle strain, leading to long-term discomfort and difficulty chewing or speaking.

Signs you should see a dentist

It’s important to seek dental care if you experience:

Jaw pain
  • Ongoing or worsening jaw pain lasting several days or longer
  • Difficulty chewing, speaking, or opening your mouth fully
  • Clicking, popping, or grinding sounds when moving your jaw
  • Swelling, tenderness, or redness in the jaw area
  • Frequent headaches, earaches, or neck pain
  • Pain that radiates to the face, head, or shoulders
  • Changes in your bite or misalignment of your teeth
  • Locking of the jaw (difficulty opening or closing your mouth)
  • Tingling or numbness in the jaw or face (which could indicate nerve involvement)
  • Unexplained tooth sensitivity or pain that may be related to jaw tension or grinding

Ignoring these symptoms may lead to more serious complications, so early diagnosis is key to effective treatment.

What to expect at the dentist’s office

Jaw pain

When you visit your dentist for jaw pain, they will:

1. Perform a comprehensive examination of your teeth, gums, and jaw joint.

2. Take digital X-rays or 3D scans to check for structural issues, hidden dental problems, or signs of arthritis./p>

3. Assess your bite and jaw function to determine if misalignment, teeth grinding, or TMD is contributing to your discomfort.

4. Review your symptoms and medical history to pinpoint potential triggers, such as stress, habits, or past injuries.

5. Check for muscle tension or tenderness in the jaw, face, and neck to evaluate strain from bruxism or joint dysfunction.

6. Discuss possible treatment options, such as a nightguard for teeth grinding, orthodontic adjustments, physical therapy, or TMJ-specific exercises.

7. Provide pain management advice, which may include anti-inflammatory medications, hot/cold therapy, or relaxation techniques.

8. Schedule follow-ups if necessary to monitor progress and adjust treatment as needed.

Treatment options for jaw pain

The right treatment depends on the cause of your jaw pain. Your dentist may recommend:

Orthodontic treatment

Custom nightguards or splints: These oral appliances prevent teeth grinding (bruxism) and help reduce pressure on the TMJ, easing jaw tension and preventing further wear on teeth.

Orthodontic treatment: If misaligned teeth or an improper bite are contributing to the pain, orthodontics like clear aligners can help correct the issue and improve jaw function.

Medication: Depending on the severity of your pain, your dentist may recommend over-the-counter or prescription anti-inflammatory drugs, muscle relaxants, or pain relievers to manage discomfort.

Physical therapy and jaw exercises: Guided exercises and stretches can help strengthen jaw muscles, improve mobility, and reduce muscle tension. Techniques like massage therapy and ultrasound therapy may also provide relief.

Dental procedures: If jaw pain stems from decay, infection, or gum disease, treatments such as fillings, root canals, extractions, or deep cleanings may be necessary to eliminate the source of pain.

Lifestyle adjustments: Small changes can significantly reduce jaw pain over time. These include avoiding hard or chewy foods, managing stress, practicing proper posture, using hot/cold compresses, and incorporating relaxation techniques (e.g., meditation, mindfulness).

Get jaw pain out of your life

Happy dental patient

Jaw pain can turn everyday moments—like enjoying meals or chatting with friends—into uncomfortable struggles. While occasional discomfort may pass on its own, persistent or worsening pain is often a sign of an underlying issue that needs professional attention. Delaying treatment not only prolongs your discomfort but may also allow minor issues to develop into more complex problems requiring extensive care.

Early action is your best path to comprehensively resolving problems. When you seek dental treatment at the first signs of jaw pain, you don’t just relieve symptoms, you create the right conditions to protect your long-term oral health and overall well-being. Most jaw-related conditions respond well to early intervention, often with simple, non-invasive solutions that fit easily into your routine.

Don’t let jaw pain control your daily life. Take the first step towards lasting relief—schedule an appointment with your dentist today and rediscover the comfort of a pain-free smile.

How our oral health affects our overall wellbeing

How our oral health affects our overall wellbeing

by | Oct 4, 2024 | News and Research, Oral Links to General Health, Oral Pathogen & Microbiome, Risk Factors

How our oral health could make or break us

Our bodies function as complex, interconnected systems, where each part influences the others. Close attention to how oral health impacts chronic diseases has resulted in increasingly clear research findings. More and more studies now demonstrate the connection between the condition of our mouths and our general health. You may have even seen this link highlighted in the recent Australian Dental Association’s statement on oral and systemic disease. Oral health is now understood to impact the entire body, from your heart and your metabolism, right through to the health of your brain.

Poor oral health could even be considered as increasing one’s risk of an early death. Given it is associated with an increase in one’s likelihood of developing chronic diseases like diabetes and heart disease, it really cannot be neglected. Evidence suggests it’s a two-way street, since poor oral health can exacerbate chronic diseases, while chronic diseases can increase the risk of dental problems. Just like an airplane needs both its wings to soar, we rely on excellent oral and overall health for a long and happy life.

What’s the oral-systemic connection?

There are three ways in which oral health connects to chronic diseases. Direct impacts, indirect impacts, and shared risk factors each reveal different ways the condition of one’s mouth is closely linked to their overall health.

Direct impact

This occurs when chronic illnesses or their treatments directly influence oral health, and vice versa. For instance, diabetes, especially when poorly controlled, can lead to high blood sugar levels, creating an environment that promotes gum inflammation (periodontitis). This is because excess sugar in the blood can feed harmful bacteria in the mouth, increasing the risk of infection and gum disease. On the flip side, untreated gum disease leads to chronic inflammation that can spread throughout the body. This systemic inflammation makes it harder for the body to respond to insulin, exacerbating diabetes and leading to a vicious cycle of worsening oral and overall health.

Indirect impact

Oral health and chronic diseases can also affect one another indirectly through treatments, medications, and lifestyle factors. Many people with chronic conditions take medications, but these can have unintended side effects on oral health. For example, antidepressants, blood pressure medications, and certain cancer treatments can cause dry mouth (xerostomia). When saliva production decreases, there’s less natural protection against harmful bacteria, leading to an increased risk of cavities and gum disease.

Moreover, oral health issues like tooth decay, gum disease, or missing teeth can make it difficult to chew, which may limit someone’s ability to eat a healthy, balanced diet. Poor nutrition can further worsen chronic conditions like diabetes, heart disease, or digestive disorders, creating a negative feedback loop where one problem worsens the other.

Shared risk factors

Many oral health issues and chronic diseases share common lifestyle habits and risk factors that can harm both areas. Smoking is a well-known cause of gum disease and tooth loss, but it’s also a major risk factor for chronic illnesses like heart disease, lung disease, and cancer. Smokers are more likely to have inflamed gums, increased plaque buildup, and a weakened immune response, which makes it harder for the body to fight infections. Quitting smoking can significantly improve both oral health and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

A diet high in sugar contributes to tooth decay and gum disease, as well as being a key factor in the development of conditions like obesity and type 2 diabetes. Cutting down on sugar can improve your oral health and overall well-being, reducing your chances of developing chronic diseases. Likewise, a nutrient-rich diet that includes plenty of vegetables, fruits, and whole grains can support healthy teeth and gums while reducing the risk of heart disease, diabetes, and other chronic illnesses.

Is your oral microbiome your friend or foe?

Your oral microbiome is the community of microorganisms, including bacteria, fungi, and viruses, that naturally make their home in the various parts of your mouth. Under normal conditions, these microbes coexist harmoniously, playing a role in maintaining oral health by aiding digestion and protecting against harmful pathogens.

However, when the balance of these microbes is disrupted—whether through poor oral hygiene, diet, or other factors—it leads to a state called dysbiosis. This imbalance can result in an overgrowth of harmful bacteria that cause inflammation and infection, such as gum disease (periodontitis), and can weaken the body’s ability to fight off other health threats.

Dysbiosis in the mouth doesn’t just stay localised—it can have far-reaching effects on overall health. Research has increasingly linked oral microbial imbalances to serious chronic diseases, such as diabetes, heart disease, and Alzheimer’s disease.

oral microbiome

Which common chronic diseases are linked to oral health?

Heart disease: Gum disease (periodontal disease) triggers inflammation, allowing harmful bacteria to enter the bloodstream. This can contribute to plaque buildup in the arteries and increase the risk of heart disease. Conversely, heart disease can compromise the immune system, making individuals more susceptible to gum infections.

Diabetes: There is a two-way relationship between diabetes and gum disease. Diabetes weakens the body’s ability to fight infections, which can worsen gum disease. In turn, the chronic inflammation from gum disease makes it harder for the body to regulate blood sugar, complicating diabetes management.

Alzheimer’s disease: Emerging research indicates a potential link between chronic gum infections and Alzheimer’s disease. The inflammatory response caused by gum disease may contribute to cognitive decline, though this connection is still under investigation.

Respiratory illness: Poor oral hygiene allows harmful bacteria from the mouth to be inhaled into the lungs, potentially leading to respiratory infections such as pneumonia, especially in those with weakened immune systems.

Mental health: Chronic dental pain and discomfort can significantly impact mental health, contributing to conditions like anxiety and depression. Additionally, concerns about bad breath, tooth appearance, or other oral health issues can negatively affect self-esteem and social interactions.

Obesity: Obesity is associated with increased systemic inflammation, which can exacerbate gum disease. Additionally, poor dietary habits linked to obesity, such as high sugar consumption, contribute to oral health issues like tooth decay and gum inflammation.

Cancer: There is evidence to suggest a link between poor oral health and certain types of cancer, particularly oral cancers like squamous cell carcinoma. Risk factors such as smoking, alcohol consumption, and chronic gum inflammation play significant roles in this connection.

diabetes

What’s the mechanism of the impact?

Hormone production: Inflammation in the mouth can interfere with the production of essential hormones, including enzymes like salivary amylase, which aid in digestion. This disruption may impair the body’s ability to properly break down food and absorb nutrients, impacting overall health.

Metabolic syndrome: Chronic inflammation from gum disease can exacerbate insulin resistance, a key factor in metabolic syndrome. This condition involves a combination of health issues, such as high blood pressure, elevated blood sugar, and abnormal cholesterol levels, increasing the risk of heart disease and diabetes.

Gut microbiome: The oral microbiome plays a crucial role in influencing the balance of bacteria in the gut. Maintaining a healthy oral environment can support gut health, potentially lowering the risk of metabolic conditions like obesity and type 2 diabetes by preventing harmful bacteria from disrupting gut flora.

Immune system: Poor oral health can lead to chronic inflammation, which places ongoing stress on the immune system. This weakened immune response can make the body more vulnerable to infections and systemic health problems beyond the mouth.

Simple steps to impeccable oral health

Maintaining outstanding oral health can significantly improve your overall health and quality of life. It’s worth the effort!

Brush and floss daily: Brush your teeth twice a day for at least two minutes, and floss once daily to remove plaque and bacteria between teeth, preventing gum disease and tooth decay.

Regular dental checkups: Schedule routine dental visits every six months to catch and address issues early, such as cavities, gum disease, or oral infections, before they worsen.

Eat a balanced diet: Focus on a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. Limit sugary foods and drinks, which can fuel the growth of harmful bacteria and lead to cavities and gum problems.

Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day. Water helps wash away food particles and bacteria, while staying hydrated supports saliva production, which is essential for maintaining a healthy oral environment.

Eat a balanced diet

Use fluoride: Incorporate fluoride toothpaste and mouthwash into your oral care routine. Fluoride strengthens tooth enamel, making it more resistant to decay.

Quit smoking: Smoking increases the risk of gum disease, tooth loss, and oral cancers. Quitting smoking is a win-win: it benefits your oral health and your overall physical health.

Chew sugar-free gum: Chewing sugar-free gum after meals can stimulate saliva production. This helps neutralise acids and wash away food particles, protecting your teeth between brushings.

Limit alcohol consumption: Excessive alcohol can dry out the mouth and erode enamel, increasing the risk of gum disease and oral infections. Moderating alcohol intake helps protect both your mouth and body.

Incorporating these habits can help protect your smile and support your overall health.

Your healthy smile makes for a healthier you

Caring for your oral health goes so much further than giving you a beautiful smile—it’s a truly valuable commitment to your overall well-being. It’s an essential part of proper self-care that simply can’t be neglected. Regular brushing, flossing, and dental checkups are simple practices, yet they can protect your teeth, nurture your body, and reduce the risk of chronic diseases. If living a long and fulfilling life is important to you, then a great oral health routine is well worth the effort.

When you prioritise your oral health, you invest in your confidence, vitality, and peace of mind for life. So, keep smiling, cherish each moment, and take pride in your healthy smile which underpins your bright future!

What does healthy gums look and feel like?

What does healthy gums look and feel like?

by | May 31, 2024 | Gum disease, Prevention, Signs and Symptoms

Do your gums ever feel a little tender or swollen? Healthy gums do more than just keep your smile looking good; they’re the bedrock of good oral health. Strong gums support your teeth, keeping them firmly in place and acting as a barrier against harmful bacteria. But how can you tell if your gums are functioning at their best?

How healthy gums look

Colour: The colour of healthy gums varies from person to person. For people with lighter skin tones, healthy gums typically have a light pink colour, while healthy gums of people with darker skin may be darker pink, brown or even black. This diversity is completely normal and, on its own, doesn’t indicate any health issues. Additionally, the colour of our gums may also change over time with natural hormonal shifts, such as those related to menstruation or menopause, or in response to medication use.

Shape and fit: Healthy gums should snugly wrap around your teeth, forming a tight seal like a perfectly fitted glove. This means there are no gaps or spaces between your teeth and gums. These spaces can trap food and bacteria, potentially leading to gum disease.

Healthy Gums

Texture: Healthy gums feel firm and smooth when you touch them, softer than the roof of your mouth but firmer than the inside of your cheek. If you gently run your finger along your gumline, you should feel a slightly ridged surface that follows the shape of your teeth. They exhibit firm elasticity, such that if you apply light pressure with the pad of a clean finger, they immediately regain their shape when you take your finger away. This texture and resilience are essential parts of the gum tissue’s role in maintaining oral health and stability.

Healthy Gums

How healthy gums feel

Healthy gums should feel strong and springy to the touch, not soft or squishy. They should not be tender, sore or bleed easily.

When brushing and flossing, there shouldn’t be any pain or bleeding. However, if you’re new to flossing, you might experience some minor bleeding for the first few days. This is because you’re disturbing plaque buildup that can irritate your gums. This bleeding should subside completely as you establish a flossing routine and your gums become healthier. If the bleeding persists after a week or two, it’s important to consult your dentist to rule out any underlying issues.

Signs of unhealthy gums

Healthy gums shouldn’t show any of the following signs. If you notice any of these, it could be a sign of gum disease. Early intervention is key, so be sure to consult your dentist if you experience any of these symptoms:

Do your gums look redder or darker than usual?

While gums can differ in natural colour, a sudden change towards redness, inflammation or even darker colours like purple can be a warning sign. This redness suggests irritation or infection and could mean your gums are fighting off harmful bacteria.

Do your gums look redder or darker than usual?

While gums can differ in natural colour, a sudden change towards redness, inflammation or even darker colours like purple can be a warning sign. This redness suggests irritation or infection and could mean your gums are fighting off harmful bacteria.

Do your gums look redder or darker than usual?

While gums can differ in natural colour, a sudden change towards redness, inflammation or even darker colours like purple can be a warning sign. This redness suggests irritation or infection and could mean your gums are fighting off harmful bacteria.

Do your gums look redder or darker than usual?

While gums can differ in natural colour, a sudden change towards redness, inflammation or even darker colours like purple can be a warning sign. This redness suggests irritation or infection and could mean your gums are fighting off harmful bacteria.

dark bleeding gums
Do your gums look redder or darker than usual?

While gums can differ in natural colour, a sudden change towards redness, inflammation or even darker colours like purple can be a warning sign. This redness suggests irritation or infection and could mean your gums are fighting off harmful bacteria.

Do your gums look redder or darker than usual?

While gums can differ in natural colour, a sudden change towards redness, inflammation or even darker colours like purple can be a warning sign. This redness suggests irritation or infection and could mean your gums are fighting off harmful bacteria.

Do your gums look redder or darker than usual?

While gums can differ in natural colour, a sudden change towards redness, inflammation or even darker colours like purple can be a warning sign. This redness suggests irritation or infection and could mean your gums are fighting off harmful bacteria.

Have you noticed pus coming from between your gum and tooth?

This is a clear sign of advanced gum disease. Pus indicates a serious infection that requires immediate dental attention to prevent further complications and potential damage to the bone supporting your teeth.

What is gum disease?

Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, occurs due to the accumulation of plaque, a sticky film that contains bacteria. If plaque isn’t removed through regular brushing and flossing, it can harden into tartar (calculus) like cement on the teeth, making it much harder to remove. This irritates the gums and creates the perfect environment for more bacteria to grow. Here’s how gum disease progresses through different stages:

dark gums

Gingivitis: This is the earliest and most reversible stage of gum disease. Gums become inflamed, red and may bleed easily during brushing or flossing. You might also experience bad breath at this point. With good oral hygiene and professional cleaning, gingivitis can be completely reversed.

Moderate periodontitis: As the disease progresses, the pockets between the teeth and gums become deeper, and more bone loss occurs. Teeth may become loose and sensitive, and chewing may become difficult. Loose teeth can also shift, causing problems with your bite. Treatment options at this stage may involve additional deep cleaning procedures or gum surgery to reshape the gum tissue and remove tartar deposits.

Early periodontitis: If gingivitis is left untreated, the infection spreads deeper into the gums and jawbone. Pockets form between the teeth and gums, trapping more plaque and bacteria. The gums may start to recede or pull away from the teeth, exposing the tooth root and potentially increasing tooth sensitivity. At this stage, some bone loss may occur. Treatment from a dentist, including scaling and root planing (deep cleaning), is necessary to control the infection.

Advanced periodontitis: Significant bone loss has occurred in the most severe stage, and the teeth may become very loose or even fall out. Additionally, advanced gum disease can damage the jawbone, potentially impacting your general health. Treatment becomes more complex and may involve surgery, bone grafting or even tooth extraction.

The good news is that gum disease is preventable and treatable in its early stages. Practicing good oral hygiene and scheduling regular dental checkups can keep your gums healthy and your smile strong.

Why maintaining healthy gums matters

Healthy gums are part of the bedrock that supports your overall health. Research has linked gum disease to serious chronic health issues like heart disease, diabetes and Alzheimer’s disease. Healthy gums also support effective chewing, which aids in proper digestion and nutrient absorption. Taking care of your mouth goes beyond aesthetics; it’s a vital investment in your long-term health and quality of life.

Tips for maintaining healthy gums

Brushing: Brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste for two minutes, using a soft-bristled brush. Gently massage the gumline at a 45-degree angle to remove plaque and stimulate blood flow.

Flossing: Floss daily to remove plaque and bacteria from between your teeth and along the gumline. You can use string floss, a water flosser or interdental brushes — whichever you find most comfortable and effective.

Dental check-ups: Visit your dentist regularly, ideally every six months, for professional evaluation and cleaning. Stay proactive!

Balanced diet: Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, dairy products and whole grains. These foods provide essential vitamins and minerals like vitamin C and calcium, which are important for gum health. Limit sugary snacks and drinks to reduce the risk of tooth decay and gum disease.

Prioritise Your Gum Health

Regular dental visits, a nutritious tooth-friendly diet and a comprehensive oral care routine will help ensure your gums and teeth remain strong and healthy for the longest time. If you notice changes in your gums, such as redness, swelling, bleeding, or pain, consult your dentist right away to prevent minor issues from becoming serious. Keep in mind that your gum health is foundational to your beautiful smile and overall well-being!

Keep vibing for life by taming chronic inflammation

Keep vibing for life by taming chronic inflammation

by | Apr 29, 2024 | Oral Links to General Health, Prevention

As we age, our bodies subtly change. Aches and pains become more commonplace, our movements might lack their youthful spring, and our eyesight might even lose some clarity. But what if there is a way to slow down this process, to feel younger and more energetic for longer? The answer could lie in understanding and managing a hidden culprit: chronic inflammation.

What is inflammation?

Inflammation is your body’s way of protecting itself when something harmful happens, such as an injury, infection or irritation. It’s a biological alarm that goes off to signal that something’s wrong. When your body detects a threat, like bacteria, viruses or toxins, it sends out immune cells, like white blood cells, to fight the problem and help you heal.

When you notice signs of inflammation, like redness, swelling, heat, pain or difficulty moving the affected area, your first thought should be that this is your body’s way of showing that it’s working hard to heal you. However, when it is severe or persistent, then it can spell trouble.

While acute inflammation is a necessary and beneficial process that helps the body fight off infections and heal injuries, chronic inflammation can be harmful. Chronic inflammation occurs when inflammation sticks around for too long, often due to underlying health conditions such as autoimmune diseases, obesity or long-term exposure to irritants like pollution and cigarette smoke.

Keep vibing for life by taming chronic inflammation

The connection between inflammation and ageing

Inflammageing is a specific type of chronic, low-grade inflammation that develops with age. It’s different from the acute inflammation you experience with a cut or infection because it happens in the absence of any obvious cause.

Cellular decline

Persistent activation of the immune system damages healthy tissues instead of just fighting off invaders. One way this happens is through cellular senescence. Our cells naturally slow down as we age, but inflammageing can accelerate this process. These dysfunctional cells accumulate and hinder tissue repair, contributing to wrinkles, muscle weakness and organ decline.

Weakened immune system

The constant low-grade ‘slow-burning fire’ of inflammageing can confuse the immune system. It becomes less effective at fighting off actual infections and diseases, making seniors more susceptible to illness.

Organ damage

Continually elevated inflammation levels can damage vital organs like the heart, lungs and brain. This increased stress is a major risk factor for age-related diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, cancer and neurodegenerative disorders like Alzheimer’s.

We’ve discussed how chronic inflammation is linked to ageing. Now, you might be surprised to learn how our oral health significantly impacts this process. Our mouths, especially when affected by periodontal (gum) disease, can become a breeding ground for inflammation.

Periodontal disease is a chronic inflammatory condition. It affects the tissues supporting our teeth, including the gums, periodontal ligament (fibres connecting teeth to bone) and jawbone. When plaque and bacteria build up along the gumline, they trigger an immune response, leading to inflammation and tissue damage.

Left untreated, periodontal disease can progress, causing tooth loss and increasing the risk of systemic inflammation. Furthermore, the harmful bacteria from these oral infections aren’t confined to the mouth. They can enter the bloodstream, triggering inflammation throughout the body. This systemic inflammation can then exacerbate the ageing process and contribute to the development of other age-related conditions.

Keep vibing for life by taming chronic inflammation

Fight inflammation and stay younger with healthy habits

Thankfully, we can turn down the flames of inflammation and promote healthy ageing through mindful lifestyle choices.

Brush away bad bacteria: Excellent oral hygiene is your first line of defence. Brushing twice daily, flossing regularly and visiting your dentist keep your mouth healthy and inflammation at bay.

Move your body: Regular exercise is a potent anti-inflammatory weapon. Get your body moving and reap the benefits of improved overall health and reduced inflammation.

Stress less, live more: Chronic stress fuels the fire. Find healthy ways to manage stress, like yoga, meditation or spending time in nature. You’ll be amazed at how much better you feel!

Sleep and recharge: Aim for 7-8 hours of quality sleep each night. When you’re sleep-deprived, your body struggles to fight inflammation. Prioritise sleep for optimal health and a more energetic you.

Fuel your body right: Go for a whole-food, anti-inflammatory diet rich in fruits, vegetables and healthy fats (e.g., nuts & fish). Limit processed foods, sugar and unhealthy fats.

Keep vibing for life by taming chronic inflammation

You’re in control!

Inflammation is a natural part of ageing, but don’t give it the final say on how you experience your adulthood. Through smart lifestyle choices, prioritising oral health and collaborating with your healthcare team, you can help keep this internal fire stay under control and experience a healthier, more vibrant life, no matter your age.

Remember, gaining understanding is only your first step toward living your best life. Consult your dentist and doctor for personalised advice on managing inflammation and thriving with outstanding health.

New studies show gum disease may increase severity of COVID-19

New studies show gum disease may increase severity of COVID-19

by | Oct 15, 2021 | Gum disease, News and Research, Oral Links to General Health, Oral Pathogen & Microbiome, Oral Safety and First Aid, Risk Factors, Signs and Symptoms

Everybody on the planet knows about COVID19. Yet with each day, come new discoveries about this mysterious disease. For many, experiencing COVID19 is no more severe than catching a cold. But for others, they experience far worse outcomes such as respiratory failure and death. The risk for contracting a severe form of COVID19 is higher if you have certain medical conditions including cancer, kidney disease, obesity, type 1/2 diabetes, respiratory conditions, high blood pressure and heart disease, as well as being in an advanced age group. Now, recent new studies reveal that one other health condition may also increase your risk of experiencing severe COVID19 – untreated gum disease and poor oral health.

What is the link between untreated gum disease & COVID19?

German researchers have discovered that when COVID19 patients experienced an inflammatory response leading to respiratory failure, their levels of a pro-inflammatory cytokine called interleukin-6 (IL-6) were elevated. This is the same cytokine implicated in the phrase “cytokine storm” – a term coined to describe the out-of-control immune response occurring in patients with severe COVID19 and other serious auto-immune disorders. People with chronic, untreated gum disease (periodontal disease) experience higher levels of IL-6 as a result of the body’s constant inflammatory response to infected gum tissue. Since elevated levels of IL-6 indicate a strong potential for respiratory complications in COVID19 patients, the authors of the study concluded that treating gum disease and decreasing IL-6 levels may help prevent or reduce severe COVID19 complications.

Earlier British study correlates German findings on IL-6

In June 2020, an English study also found that high IL-6 levels, along with a high oral bacterial load in the mouth, were significant risk factors for severe COVID19 respiratory complications. Their advice: keep good oral hygiene, regular checkups and get gum disease treated!

Treating gum disease to reduce IL-6 levels in the body

The treatment for periodontal disease is quite simple. It is performed by a dentist in a basic dental procedure known as a scale and root planning – a deep dental clean right down to the roots. During this treatment, all oral bacteria are removed above and below the gum line – keeping your teeth and gums healthy. Once gum disease is being properly managed and treated, the body’s inflammatory response winds down along with lower levels of IL-6.

Resources:

Herold, T., Jurinovic, V., Arnreich, C., Lipworth, B. J., Hellmuth, J. C., von Bergwelt-Baildon, M., Klein, M., & Weinberger, T. (2020). Elevated levels of IL-6 and CRP predict the need for mechanical ventilation in COVID-19. Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, 146(1), 128-136.e4.  https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jaci.2020.05.008 Sampson, V., Kamona, N., & Sampson, A. (2020). Could there be a link between oral hygiene and the severity of SARS-CoV-2 infections? British Dental Journal, 228(12), 971–975.  https://doi.org/10.1038/s41415-020-1747-8 Sampson, V. (2020). Oral hygiene risk factor. British Dental Journal, 228(8), 569.  https://doi.org/10.1038/s41415-020-1545-3