UNVEILING THE LINK BETWEEN ORAL HEALTH AND WELL BEING

In the intricate web of human health, oral well-being often stays in the shadows. This essay aims to
uncover the vital connection between oral health and overall well-being, drawing from various references to
illuminate this frequently ignored relationship.
 Oral Health and Brain Function:
Understanding the link between oral health and brain function reveals a captivating connection. Dominy et
al. (2019) suggest evidence of oral health playing a role in cognitive function, particularly concerning
Alzheimer's disease. Recognizing this underscores the need for good oral care to preserve cognitive abilities
with potential preventive measures for cognitive disorders.
 Hormones and Oral Health:
The interplay between oral health and hormonal balance adds complexity. Sanchez et al. (2021) discuss the
relationship between oral health and hormonal function, highlighting how conditions like periodontitis can
influence hormonal imbalances. This underscores the importance of considering oral health in overall
hormonal management for maintaining a delicate balance.
 Genetics and Oral Health:
Genetic factors contribute significantly to our understanding of oral health. Hagg et al. (2017) explore the
link between specific genes and susceptibility to gum diseases, emphasizing the need for personalized oral
care based on genetic makeup. This genetic perspective encourages a nuanced and targeted approach to
dental care.
 Oral Health and Social Disparities:
The impact of oral health extends beyond individuals, reflecting broader societal disparities. Benzian et al.
(2018) discuss the global burden of oral diseases, particularly in marginalized communities. This
emphasizes the need for comprehensive health policies addressing oral health and the social determinants
contributing to disparities.
Conclusion:
Recognizing the profound connection between oral health and overall well-being requires a holistic
approach. The impact on brain function, hormonal balance, genetics, and social disparities collectively
emphasizes the importance of incorporating oral health into the broader landscape of healthcare.
Understanding and addressing the multifaceted aspects of oral health move us towards a comprehensive and
integrative approach to fostering well-being across diverse populations.
References
 Dominy, S. S., Lynch, C., Ermini, F., Benedyk, M., Marczyk, A., Konradi, A., ... & Porphyromonas
Gingivalis is present in Alzheimer's disease brains. (2019). Nature Communications, 10(1), 1-11.
 Sanchez, G. A., Miozza, V., Delgado, A., & Busch, L. (2021). Influence of endocrine disorders on
periodontitis: A systematic review and meta-analysis. European Journal of Dentistry, 15(4), 611.
 Hagg, D., Sandling, J. K., Savman, K., Bergman, E., Holst, A., & Nilsson, S. (2017). Genome-wide
expression profiling of periodontitis-affected gingival tissue in Down syndrome. Journal of Oral
Microbiology, 9(1), 1378321.
 Benzian, H., Williams, D. M., & Aarabi, G. (2018). An estimated 3.5 billion people are affected by oral
diseases globally—now what? Proceedings of the 2018 World Workshop on Oral Medicine VII. Oral
Surgery, Oral Medicine, Oral Pathology and Oral Radiology, 125(6), 576-578.

HATİCE GAMZE YAZICI

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