Brush Often & Breathe Easy: How Taking Care of Your Gums Can Protect Your Lungs

Your gums and your lungs aren’t exactly located in the same area of your body, so how could one affect the other? That’s a very good question, and researchers didn’t fully understand the connection until more recently. It turns out that when gum disease bacteria invade your respiratory system, it’s a lot harder to breathe easy!

Fortunately, there’s a simple way you can prevent gum disease and protect your lungs: by brushing and flossing.

How Gum Health Affects Lung Health

Experts have been discovering traces of gum disease bacteria in other areas of the body for years. It’s easy to forget that this condition is technically an infection, and over time, it can spread beyond your oral cavity. What’s not always obvious is how the bacteria end up in other locations, such as your lungs.

Thanks to the collaborative efforts of several EU researchers, health professionals now know that in cases of respiratory disease, the answer is saliva. Because periodontal bacteria primarily attack the gums, they have easy access to your saliva and can become mixed with it. Guess where that infected saliva goes when you inhale. That’s right – to your lungs! Individuals who mouth breathe due to physical exertion or sinus problems are particularly at-risk for this occurrence.

Preventing Gum Disease and Protecting Your Lungs

While gum disease doesn’t necessarily cause respiratory issues like pneumonia and COPD, it does trigger an inflammatory response that can make it harder for air to flow properly through the body. One of the best ways to protect your lungs from increased inflammation, then, is to take steps to prevent gum disease. Here’s what experts recommend:

• Brushing twice per day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste
• Flossing between your teeth once daily
• Visiting your dentist every six months for a checkup and cleaning
• Calling your dentist as soon as you notice common gum disease symptoms (bleeding gums, loose teeth, dental sensitivity, etc.)

Taking good care of your gums can not only promote a healthier, happier smile, but also preserve your general wellness. So every time you brush, remember you’re doing more than just freshening up your breath!

About the Author

Dr. Patrick Crowley makes it a point to stay up to date with the latest dental research. As a lifelong learner himself, he firmly believes knowledge has the power to help his patients lead healthier, happier lives. If you notice signs of gum disease, visit Dr. Crowley – he’ll take care of your smile and give you personalized advice for maintaining good oral health. To schedule an appointment, contact his office at 405-751-5515 or submit your request online.