Oral health is much more important than many people realize. Diseases such as gum disease not only put teeth at risk, but also relate to various health problems. It is no exaggeration to say that protecting smile is an important step to protect other parts of the body.

In particular, there is a clear link between bad oral health and respiratory diseases. Research organized by the European Federation of Periodontology shows that gum disease is related to the decline of lung function. With the aggravation of gum disease, the decline of lung function is more obvious. Therefore, taking good care of the oral cavity, especially the gums, can help maintain healthy skin.

How is oral health related to lung health?

Gingival disease is caused by harmful oral bacteria that accumulate in the mouth. If you accidentally inhale these bacteria, they can easily spread to your lungs. They enter the blood through the blood vessels of the gums, and can also reach the lungs and other parts of the body.

Of course, it is natural to inhale bacteria regularly. The immune system can usually repel any harmful organisms that enter the lungs. But if you already have gum disease or other oral health problems, the overweight immune system may be more difficult to deal with problems in other parts of the body. So why are more serious gum diseases more closely related to respiratory diseases?

What lung diseases can oral bacteria cause?

If oral bacteria eventually infect the lungs and airways, they will cause bronchitis, usually accompanied by cough, mucus, and fatigue. But the more serious case is pneumonia, that is, infection, which may cause inflammation of one or two air bags in the lungs. Some pneumonia is mild, but the infection is serious enough, which can also threaten life.

Oral bacteria can also worsen existing lung problems. For example, emphysema – where damaged air bags cause difficulty breathing – is usually the result of using cigarettes or marijuana. If bacteria enter the lungs, they can make people who already have emphysema more ill.

How to protect the mouth and lungs?

Controlling oral bacteria can help protect the lungs and other parts of the body from problems they may cause. Fortunately, maintaining good oral health is not complicated. To maintain healthy gums, you can take a few simple steps. For example:

• Brush your teeth with fluoride toothpaste at least twice a day.

• Use dental floss more than once a day.

• Regular dental cleaning.

• Avoid tobacco products completely.

• Use a therapeutic mouthwash with antibacterial properties.

Once you notice the symptoms of gum disease, call your dentist. Early treatment, this situation is easier to control. Only by being proactive can we avoid the worst impact of gum disease and prevent bacteria from being damaged elsewhere.