Episode 85: How Your Mouth Reflects Your Overall Health

[Eon Engelbrecht – E-Radio-SA] (0:04 – 0:31)
Welcome to another edition of Save Your Money, Save Your Teeth and Dr Clifford Yudelman from OptiSmile joins us again today to explore the deep links between oral health and systemic well-being, from gum disease and inflammation to heart health and diabetes. Today we’re going to learn why the mouth is a crucial part of the whole-body picture. Dr Yudelman, welcome back.

[Dr Clifford Yudelman – OptiSmile] (0:31 – 1:04)
Thanks, thanks for having me back. Really excited to start off on a new series after our recap episodes, which were numbers 81 to 84. I believe today’s number is 85, is it?

[Eon Engelbrecht – E-Radio-SA] (1:04 – 1:05)
Yes, that’s right – 85. We’re going to hit 100 by the end of the year.

[Dr Clifford Yudelman – OptiSmile] (1:05 – 1:33)
Amazing. I think so, we’re well on track. And the good news is I’ve really got stuck into the work on the book. OptiSmile Digital Dentistry – Save Your Money, Save Your Teeth. It’s our 10th anniversary of OptiSmile, so by the time we reach podcast 100, I’d like to have the book live on Amazon and Takealot. Now that I’ve made it public, I’ll have to follow through – it’s like quitting smoking or losing weight – accountability helps!

[Eon Engelbrecht – E-Radio-SA] (1:34 – 1:36)
That’s wonderful, well done. I’m proud of you.

[Dr Clifford Yudelman – OptiSmile] (1:38 – 1:40)
Thank you, thanks for your help.

[Eon Engelbrecht – E-Radio-SA] (1:40 – 1:59)
Now, Dr Yudelman, many people think of dentists as just looking after our teeth. But is it true that the mouth can actually reveal signs of diseases elsewhere in the body?

[Dr Clifford Yudelman – OptiSmile] (1:59 – 4:29)
Yes, absolutely. The mouth is often called the window to the body. Many systemic conditions first show subtle signs in the mouth – bleeding gums, ulcers, fungal infections or dry mouth. At OptiSmile, we mostly see younger, healthier patients, but when I worked in London and the US, I often encountered older patients with these symptoms. I’ve even diagnosed uncontrolled diabetes based on recurrent gum infections and slow healing. Certain immune diseases, like lichen planus, show up as white patches – we always send those for biopsy because they can indicate autoimmune issues or even oral cancer. The mouth gives early warning signs for many diseases, so regular dental visits are essential.

[Eon Engelbrecht – E-Radio-SA] (4:29 – 4:37)
How exactly does gum disease link to heart disease and diabetes?

[Dr Clifford Yudelman – OptiSmile] (4:38 – 6:13)
Research has now clearly shown the link through inflammation. Chronic gum disease allows bacteria into the bloodstream, where they stick to blood vessel walls, triggering inflammation and hardening of the arteries, known as atherosclerosis. In diabetes, gum disease worsens blood sugar control by increasing insulin resistance. Studies even show that treating gum disease improves diabetic control. It’s a two-way relationship – diabetics should ensure their gums are healthy, as gum disease can seriously affect overall health.

[Eon Engelbrecht – E-Radio-SA] (6:13 – 6:24)
Many people don’t realise that dentists can sometimes pick up illnesses before doctors do. How does that happen?

[Dr Clifford Yudelman – OptiSmile] (6:25 – 8:19)
Dentists spend a lot of time examining soft tissues, bone on x-rays, and lymph nodes. We might spot anaemia from pale gums or vitamin B12 deficiency from smooth tongue surfaces. Over my 42-year career, I’ve also identified melanomas and basal cell cancers on patients’ faces. Oral cancer is one of the most serious findings – small ulcers lasting more than two weeks can be deadly if ignored. Early detection at the dentist can literally save lives.

[Eon Engelbrecht – E-Radio-SA] (8:19 – 8:30)
Can oral bacteria really travel through the body and cause harm elsewhere?

[Dr Clifford Yudelman – OptiSmile] (8:31 – 10:18)
Yes. One key bacterium is Porphyromonas gingivalis (P. gingivalis), a major cause of gum disease. It’s been found in arterial plaques of heart attack patients and even in the brains of people with Alzheimer’s. The same bacteria causing bleeding gums can travel through the bloodstream and create inflammation in other organs. It’s both fascinating and alarming.

[Eon Engelbrecht – E-Radio-SA] (10:19 – 10:29)
People often hear the word inflammation – how does oral inflammation affect general health?

[Dr Clifford Yudelman – OptiSmile] (10:30 – 11:56)
Chronic gum inflammation releases cytokines – chemical messengers that cause inflammation throughout the body. Elevated C-reactive protein (CRP) is a common marker seen in blood tests. If your CRP is high, your doctor may suspect systemic inflammation, which can sometimes originate from gum disease. These inflammatory molecules play roles in heart disease, rheumatoid arthritis and even cancer. Healthy gums help control this chain reaction.

[Eon Engelbrecht – E-Radio-SA] (11:57 – 12:03)
Does treating gum disease or improving oral hygiene help with systemic issues?

[Dr Clifford Yudelman – OptiSmile] (12:03 – 13:58)
Definitely. Studies show that deep cleaning and scaling, sometimes combined with antibiotics, can significantly reduce inflammation markers. Diabetic patients often see improved HbA1c (a long-term blood sugar measure) after gum treatment. Oral hygiene is not just about appearance or fresh breath – it’s a genuine part of managing chronic disease.

[Eon Engelbrecht – E-Radio-SA] (13:58 – 14:06)
How does oral health change as we age, and why does it matter for long-term wellness?

[Dr Clifford Yudelman – OptiSmile] (14:07 – 15:32)
As we age, saliva production decreases due to medication, stress and hormonal changes. Saliva buffers acids and washes away bacteria. Less saliva means more plaque, faster gum problems and higher bacterial loads, which increase inflammation. Regular cleanings, electric toothbrushes and proper techniques are crucial, especially for older adults who are managing other health risks.

[Eon Engelbrecht – E-Radio-SA] (15:32 – 15:41)
Can lifestyle factors like stress, diet or smoking affect oral and systemic health?

[Dr Clifford Yudelman – OptiSmile] (15:41 – 17:24)
Absolutely. Stress increases cortisol, which weakens immunity and slows healing. Diets high in sugar and processed carbs fuel harmful bacteria and inflammation. Smoking starves gums of oxygen and promotes anaerobic bacteria that thrive deep in the gums, leading to gum disease and bad breath. Conversely, diets rich in antioxidants and omega-3s, like salmon and blueberries, help reduce inflammation. The choices we make daily truly shape our health.

[Eon Engelbrecht – E-Radio-SA] (17:24 – 17:32)
How can patients reduce inflammation and chronic disease risk starting with their mouth?

[Dr Clifford Yudelman – OptiSmile] (17:32 – 18:30)
Start with regular hygiene visits and professional cleanings. Floss or use interdental brushes daily. Use a soft-bristled electric toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Eat a balanced diet, stay hydrated and manage stress. A healthy mouth is one of the easiest and most effective steps toward better overall health.

[Eon Engelbrecht – E-Radio-SA] (18:30 – 18:34)
Doctor, what’s your final takeaway for our listeners today?

[Dr Clifford Yudelman – OptiSmile] (18:34 – 19:44)
Your mouth is the gateway to your body. If you want to improve your general health, start with your gums. Healthy gums reduce systemic inflammation, strengthen immunity and improve overall wellbeing. Remember – your mouth isn’t separate from your body; it’s the entry point to it.

[Eon Engelbrecht – E-Radio-SA] (19:44 – 20:03)
Well said, Dr Yudelman. Your mouth is more than just teeth and gums; it reflects your whole-body health. Prioritising oral care can protect your heart, brain and longevity. Thank you for joining us.

[Dr Clifford Yudelman – OptiSmile] (20:03 – 20:30)
Thank you, and I’m looking forward to next week’s episode, Beyond Aesthetics: Emotional Dentistry. Be sure to tune in and have a great week.

[Eon Engelbrecht – E-Radio-SA] (20:30 – 21:02)
Thank you, you too, Dr Yudelman. Visit OptiSmile.co.za to book a comprehensive digital consultation and explore articles on oral-systemic health. Don’t forget to subscribe and share this podcast.

[Narrator] (21:22 – 22:07)
Discover the world of dental excellence with OptiSmile. Join Dr Clifford Yudelman weekly for expert advice and insights. Visit OptiSmile.co.za for articles and booking options. OptiSmile – where global expertise meets local care.