Did you know that caring for your teeth can also help keep your brain healthy? It might seem surprising, but oral health and brain function are closely related. Let’s explore how your teeth and brain are linked and why keeping your mouth healthy can protect your brain too. Remember, regular dental checkups, including an oral cancer exam near you, are important for your overall health.
How Oral Health Affects the Brain?
Your mouth contains a variety of bacteria, both good and bad. Regular brushing and flossing help manage the harmful bacteria, keeping your mouth healthy. Neglecting proper oral care allows the bad bacteria to accumulate, potentially leading to issues like cavities, gum disease, and other problems.
If harmful bacteria in your mouth are not properly managed, they can enter your bloodstream through inflamed gums and potentially reach other parts of your body, including the brain. This can trigger inflammation as your body responds to the bacteria, causing symptoms like severe redness and swelling in the affected areas. When this inflammation affects the brain, it can result in serious issues, such as bacterial brain infections and other significant health problems.
Symptoms of Brain Infection from Tooth
Symptoms of a brain infection, which has its root in your mouth, can be serious and require immediate treatment. Some of the symptoms that you must look for include:
- Severe headaches: When you experience headaches that are more severe than usual, and cannot be reduced by ordinary pain medicine.
- High fever: High temperatures that do not reduce may indicate the presence of an infection.
- Confusion or difficulty in thinking: If you suddenly have trouble thinking clearly or a feeling of confusion, it can be due to an infection that has spread to the brain.
- Stiff neck: Severe pain and stiffness in the neck can indicate the infection has spread to the brain.
- Seizures: Symptoms of sudden, uncontrolled movements or loss of consciousness are signs of severe issues and need immediate medical attention.
If you detect any of these symptoms, consult a dentist right away to treat these issues. Brain infections are uncommon, but they do occur, particularly if dental health is neglected.
Are Teeth Nerves Connected to Brain?
Yes, the nerves in teeth are connected to the brain, and this makes your teeth sensitive. For example, if you eat very hot or cold food or drinks, the nerves in your teeth send brain signals that let you know something is uncomfortable or painful.
These nerves connect to the brain via a system known as the trigeminal nerve. This nerve is responsible for the sensation on your face, including your teeth, gums, and jaw. When you have a toothache, the nerves in the teeth send pain signals to your brain through this nerve. This is why severe toothaches sometimes result in headaches or ear pain.
Gum Disease and Its Impact on the Brain
Gum disease, or periodontal disease, is another way in which oral health can affect the brain. If gum disease is not treated, it may result in more serious health issues. Once bacteria infect the gums, they can spread throughout the body, potentially reaching the brain.
Studies have shown that people with gum disease are more likely to have brain problems like Alzheimer’s disease, a condition that affects memory and thinking. This is because the bacteria from gum disease can cause inflammation in the brain, which can affect brain cells over time.
How to Protect Your Oral and Brain Health?
Keeping dental health in good condition is another form of brain care. Here are the basic steps a person can do:
- Brush your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
- Floss daily to remove food particles and plaque between your teeth.
- Visit the dentist for regular checkups and cleanings.
- Have a balanced diet including fruits, vegetables, and more.
- Avoid smoking, and limit consumption of foods with added sugars and drinks.
Following these steps will help protect your teeth, gums, and brain. Good oral health is essential for the well-being of your overall body, including the brain.
Get Quality Dental Care at Smile 101 Today!
Smile 101 is a professional dental clinic that offers a wide range of dental services to keep your smile bright. Our team of dentist in Kissimmee is experienced and addresses all your dental issues effectively. We offer comprehensive dental services, including root canal therapy, dental implants, and more. Contact us today to schedule your dental appointment at our clinic!