Bacteria in the mouth, how does it affect our overall health?

We all know how important gut health is to general health but the gut begins in the mouth and the delicate balance of bacteria in the mouth sets the stage for everything downstream. Bacteria in the mouth travels to different sites in the body and inflammation in the mouth can increase inflammation in the rest of the body. Oral inflammation like periodontitis or gum disease in combination with other risk factors has been linked to Alzheimer’s, dementia, stroke, heart attack, kidney disease increased susceptibility to pneumonia and bronchitis. Oral cancer, as you would imagine has big implications on overall health. Taking care of your mouth and teeth is so important to general health.