Can poor oral health lead to poor overall health? how so?

Possible: If having significant poor oral health, with tooth loss, or tooth pain. It may potentially affect diet and limit someone from eating properly. It may also limit a person to certain foods. A dental infection or abscess can also become a very serious problem occasionally if not addressed and treated. Periodontal disease too can impact systemic health. Remember that the mouth is connected to the body.

Absolutely, here:: Research has hundreds of studies relating dental health issues to overall general health. Just do a google search and explore the subject. Here a few examples: http://www.Mayoclinic.Com/health/dental/de00001 http://www.Webmd.Com/oral-health/features/oral-health-the-mouth-body-connection http://www.Perio.Org/consumer/other-diseases.

Yes: Bacteria, inflammatory cells , and byproducts from poor oral health can affect many systems in the body. Most studies have shown links, or risk factors for diseases, but not necessarily direct cause/effect. These are things like stroke, heart disease, diabetes, low birth weight, osteoporosis....Things you probably want to avoid. Ensuring oral health takes 5-10 minutes a day and few good choices.

Absolutely: Infection and inflammation in the mouth does not remain in the mouth. Anything that enters the bloodstream can be carried to all parts of the body. There are some very nasty bacteria in a mouth with disease, and these can be devastating in other areas of the body. The heart is a particularly susceptible organ as are prosthetic joints. Get clean and stay clean. See your Dentist. Good Luck.

Definitely, yes: Mouth infections can affect major internal organs. For example, the heart and heart valves can become inflamed by bacterial endocarditis. Digestion problems and many more.