As we have discussed in previous articles, poor oral health can lead to overall health issues. Oral health and overall health are closely interconnected. The health of your skin is also closely connected to your oral health. Your oral health can significantly impact your skin health. Infections in your gums and mouth can lead to systemic inflammation and bacterial spread, potentially exacerbating skin conditions like acne, eczema, and psoriasis.
At Sninski and Schmitt Family Dentistry, we understand the connection between your oral health, the health of your skin, and your overall health. Maintaining good oral health is paramount to your general well-being. In this article, we will discuss how oral health can influence skin conditions, the interrelationship between the two, and offer advice for maintaining both a healthy mouth and radiant skin.
The Connection Between Gum Disease and Skin Inflammation
Gum disease also referred to as periodontal disease can contribute to systemic inflammation, which can affect the skin by making inflammatory skin conditions such as acne, psoriasis, and atopic dermatitis worse or even be the cause of these conditions. Poor oral hygiene can also lead to inflammation. If you have plaque buildup from not brushing or flossing regularly, over time, the bacteria can cause the plaque to harden and turn into tartar. Tartar is difficult to remove and can irritate your gums, causing them to become inflamed.
- Inflammation and systemic effects: Gum disease is characterized by inflammation of the gums and can cause a systemic inflammatory response through the body.
- Bacteria and skin conditions: Bacteria from inflamed gums or dental infections can enter the bloodstream and spread to nearby areas of the skin, contributing to acne breakouts or other skin conditions.
Acne
Poor oral health, specifically infections like gingivitis or cavities, can contribute to acne. Areas around the mouth like the chin, lips, and lower cheeks are vulnerable due to the transfer of bacteria from the mouth to the face. Inflammation that occurs from poor oral hygiene can then spread to other parts of your body and cause or worsen acne.
Eczema
There is a growing understanding of the two-way relationship between eczema and oral health. In other words, poor oral health may contribute to eczema and, by the same token, eczema may affect oral health, potentially leading to conditions like gingivitis, periodontitis, and dental anomalies.
Eczema may affect oral health in these ways:
- Increased risk of oral health problems: Studies suggest that individuals with eczema might experience a higher risk of developing oral health issues like cavities, gum disease, and other dental issues.
- Inflammatory response: Chronic inflammation, a primary symptom of eczema, can potentially impact oral health, possibly leading to gingivitis, an inflammation of the gums.
- Oral microbiome: Research indicates that the oral microbiome in people with eczema might be different from those without eczema, potentially contributing to impaired oral health.
Psoriasis and Periodontal Disease
Both psoriasis and periodontal disease are chronic inflammatory conditions with similarities. Studies such as the 2021 “Assessment of Periodontal Status in Patients with Psoriatic Arthritis: A retrospective, case-control study” have shown a strong association between the two conditions. There is an increased risk of gum disease in psoriasis patients. Because many patients develop psoriasis before gum disease, there may be an increased risk of gum disease for people with psoriasis.
Other similarities include:
- Chronic inflammation: Both psoriasis and gum disease are characterized by chronic inflammation. This inflammation may damage the gums and teeth, leading to gum disease.
- Immune system dysfunction: Psoriasis and gum disease are both autoimmune conditions where the immune system attacks healthy tissues. This can lead to an overactive inflammatory response.
Dry Mouth and Skin Conditions
Dry mouth and dry skin can sometimes be associated with certain skin conditions, autoimmune disorders, and other medical conditions. The two issues can also be side effects of certain medications.
These are some skin conditions that are related to dry mouth:
- Perioral dermatitis: This condition is characterized by a rash around the mouth. It can cause dry, flaky, and sometimes itchy skin and is often mistaken for acne.
- Angular cheilitis: Dry, cracked skin at the corners of the mouth can lead to angular cheilitis, a painful condition that causes inflammation.
- Sjögren’s Syndrome: This is an autoimmune disorder that attacks the glands that produce moisture, leading to dry eyes, dry mouth, and potentially dry skin. Sjögren’s can sometimes occur alongside other autoimmune disorders like rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus (lupus), or Raynaud’s phenomenon.
Rosacea
Rosacea is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that causes reddened skin and a rash, usually on the nose and cheeks. The cause of rosacea is not fully understood, but it is believed to be a combination of factors, including genetics, an overactive immune system, and environmental triggers. The connection between oral health and rosacea isn’t fully understood; however, some studies suggest a link between poor oral health, specifically periodontal disease, and rosacea flare-ups. Periodontal disease is a chronic inflammatory condition with the inflammation contributing to systemic inflammation, which can affect the skin.
How to Improve Your Oral Health
You can improve your oral health by focusing on a daily routine of brushing and flossing your teeth as recommended, visiting your dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings, and incorporating a diet that promotes oral health.
Daily Oral Hygiene
- Brush twice a day: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste for two minutes each time.
- Floss daily: Remove plaque and food particles from between teeth.
- Use mouthwash: Rinse with an antimicrobial mouthwash to help kill bacteria and freshen your breath.
- Brush your tongue: Brushing your tongue helps remove bacteria and freshen your breath.
Regular Dental Checkups
- Schedule routine visits: Visit your dentist for professional cleanings and regular checkups every six months or more frequently if advised.
- Get professional advice: Your dentist can provide personalized recommendations for your oral health needs.
Diet and Lifestyle
- Limit sugary foods and drinks: Reduce your intake of sugary drinks and snacks. These contribute to tooth decay.
- Eat foods that promote strong teeth and gums: Certain foods can assist in good oral health. Foods that are rich in calcium, Vitamin D, and phosphorous create strong teeth and gums. Read our article “Food for Strong Teeth and Gums” for more information.
- Drink plenty of water: Drinking water helps wash away food particles and bacteria and can help prevent dry mouth. It is also important to your overall health.
- Avoid tobacco products: Smoking and using tobacco can significantly increase your risk of gum disease and oral cancer.
- Manage diabetes: If you have diabetes, managing your blood sugar levels is crucial for maintaining good oral health.
- Prevent dry mouth: If you experience dry mouth, chew sugarless gum, drink plenty of water, and avoid tobacco products and alcohol.
- Consider fluoride treatments: If you are at a high risk for cavities, your dentist may recommend fluoride treatments such as varnish or foam during office visits, or fluoride gel or mouth rinse for home use.
Contact Sninski & Schmitt Family Dentistry for Evaluations and Checkups
Our dental team can work with you in maintaining good oral health. We will identify relative factors in any skin conditions and your oral health and make recommendations that help you keep a balance and reduce inflammation. Contact your Cary and Holly Springs dental professionals at Sninski & Schmitt Family Dentistry. We are currently accepting new patients. Please fill out the form below or give us call us at our Holly Springs dentist office at 919-600-6262 or our Cary dentist office at 919-467-2203.