By: Laura Marin-Ruiz, DDS, MHA

The Link Between Oral Health and Overall Health

Optimal oral health is essential for overall health and well-being. Poor dental health can have negative effects on a child’s physical, emotional, and social development and has been linked to a range of health conditions, including diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and respiratory infections.

One of the main reasons for the link between oral health and overall health is the presence of harmful bacteria in the mouth. When dental hygiene is poor, these bacteria can enter the bloodstream, leading to inflammation and infection in other parts of the body. Inflammation, in particular, has been linked to a range of chronic health conditions, including heart disease, stroke, and some cancers.

Children with poor oral health are also at risk of experiencing pain and discomfort, difficulty eating and sleeping, and problems with speech and communication, which can impact their physical, emotional, and social development. This can lead to poor academic performance, behavioral problems, and lower self-esteem.

Disparities Among Children

Despite the importance of good oral health, disparities exist among children, with differences based on race, ethnicity, and socioeconomic status. For example, children from low-income families, racial and ethnic minorities, and those with disabilities are likelier to experience poor oral health and less access to dental care.

These disparities have long-term effects on children’s oral and overall health, negatively impacting their education and employment opportunities. Addressing these disparities is critical for promoting healthy development and reducing health inequalities among children.

Strategies to Promote Dental Health

To promote good dental health in children, pediatricians, and public health professionals can:

  • Educate parents on the importance of establishing good oral hygiene habits early on and  limit food and drinks that are high in sugar and carbohydrates.
  • Encourage parents and caregivers to seek regular dental check-ups and cleanings for their children and address any dental issues that arise promptly.
  • Ensure the child has a dental provider to refer to or provide a list of available dental providers close to where the child lives or studies.
  • Support increased access to dental care for children, including advocating for increased funding for Medicaid and other dental care programs to low-income families.
  • Advocate for community water fluoridation, which has been shown to be an effective way to prevent tooth decay, especially in low-income communities.
  • Identify the root causes of oral health disparities by assessing social determinants of health such as poverty, lack of access to healthy food, and limited access to healthcare to facilitate the connections to resources they need.

The Long-term Impact of Good Oral Health

Promoting good dental health in children is critical for their overall health and well-being. As pediatricians and public health professionals, we have a critical role in promoting dental hygiene by addressing health disparities and providing education and resources to parents and caregivers. By increasing access to dental care, supporting community water fluoridation, and addressing social determinants of health, we can help reduce oral health disparities and promote health equity. By emphasizing the importance of good dental hygiene habits early on, we can help children establish good habits that can last a lifetime, leading to better overall health outcomes for all children.