How tooth decay is related to diabetes, stroke, and infertility## Contribution

In fact, tooth decay is not just a local problem. It is a sign of systemic disorders that affect the entire body. Modern medicine increasingly links dental health with serious diseases such as type 2 diabetes, stroke, and even infertility.

What is tooth decay - really? Tooth decay is an infectious inflammatory disease caused by bacteria that: destroy tooth enamel, create an acidic environment, penetrate deep tooth tissues, and can enter the bloodstream. In other words, it's a chronic inflammatory process that weakens immunity, disrupts the microbiome, and creates a constant source of infection.

With diabetes, the body is less able to fight infections - immunity is weakened. Saliva becomes less protective, tooth remineralization deteriorates. High blood glucose levels = more food for cariogenic bacteria. Chronic inflammation from tooth decay intensifies insulin resistance. Diabetes provokes tooth decay, and tooth decay exacerbates diabetes. Research shows: people with severe periodontitis and multiple cavities have a 2-3 times higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

Tooth decay and stroke: inflammation affects blood vessels. Bacteria from the oral cavity (for example, Streptococcus mutans) can enter the bloodstream. These microbes are even found in brain vascular plaques. Inflammation worsens blood vessel elasticity and promotes blood clot formation. The risk of stroke and ischemic heart disease increases. People with advanced oral diseases are twice as likely to suffer heart attacks and strokes than those who regularly treat tooth decay and maintain hygiene.

Tooth decay and infertility: hormones, bacteria, immunity. Inflammation in the oral cavity can trigger a systemic immune response, disrupting hormonal balance. During pregnancy, untreated tooth decay increases the risk of premature birth, low fetal weight, and preeclampsia. In men, bacteria from the oral cavity can enter the bloodstream and reduce sperm quality. Women with chronic gum diseases are 3 times more likely to have difficulty conceiving.

Brushing teeth twice a day is the foundation of prevention. Dental floss and irrigator - for removing interdental plaque. Dental check-up - every 6 months. Reducing sugar in the diet - decreases the risk of bacterial growth. Tooth decay is not just a hole in a tooth. It's a signal that in the body: immunity is weakened, the microbiome is disrupted, inflammatory processes are triggered.

Dental health is directly linked to the health of the heart, brain, endocrine and reproductive systems.

Taking care of teeth means taking care of the entire body.