The Relationship Between Oral Health and Acne

Have you ever wondered if your teeth and gums could be plotting against your skin? Surprisingly, your oral hygiene is more connected to those pesky pimples than you might expect. Explore how keeping your mouth healthy can benefit your complexion.

The Mouth-Skin Connection

Your mouth is home to countless bacteria—some friendly, others not so much. When you neglect brushing and flossing, plaque—a sticky film teeming with bacteria—accumulates on your teeth and gums. If not addressed, plaque hardens into tartar, irritating the gums and leading to inflammation. This inflammatory response isn’t confined to your mouth; it can manifest elsewhere, including the skin on your face, potentially worsening acne.

Poor oral hygiene also allows harmful bacteria to flourish, leading to cavities or gum disease. These infections may increase levels of Propionibacterium acnes in your mouth, a bacterium associated with acne development. When bacteria from infected teeth or gums come into contact with the skin, they can incite breakouts in these areas.

The increased inflammation and bacteria associated with neglected oral health may cause acne around the mouth, chin, lower cheeks, and neck. If you’re battling persistent acne in these regions, it might be time to assess your oral care routine.

Steps to Treat Acne Through Oral Care

Promoting clearer skin is one of many reasons to maintain diligent oral hygiene. Incorporate the following practices into your routine to help treat and prevent acne:

• Brush twice daily: Use fluoride toothpaste and brush for at least two minutes each morning and night. This removes plaque, food debris, and bacteria that could trigger inflammation in your mouth and skin.
• Floss daily: Flossing reaches tight spots your toothbrush can’t, removing hidden buildup between teeth and along the gum line. Consistent flossing prevents gum irritation and keeps bacterial levels in check, reducing the chance of acne flare-ups near your mouth.
• Use antibacterial mouthwash: Swishing with an antibacterial rinse eliminates lingering bacteria after brushing and flossing, targeting areas your toothbrush might miss, like the roof of your mouth and the insides of your cheeks.
• Schedule regular dental check-ups: Plan to see your dentist twice a year for early detection and treatment of potential problems. Keeping your teeth and gums healthy means fewer bacteria to mess with your complexion.
• Mind your habits: Bacteria can transfer from your mouth to your fingers to your skin, creating a direct path to clogged pores and breakouts. Avoid touching your face after adjusting oral appliances or putting your fingers in your mouth for any reason.

Prioritize Oral and Skin Health with Park 56 Dental

Clearly, a healthy mouth contributes to healthy skin. Keep both looking their best with help from Park 56 Dental. We have served the 10022 community since 1997 with personalized, top-quality dental care in a spa-like environment. From general dentistry to cosmetic procedures, our comprehensive services are designed with your comfort and health in mind. As NYC’s best dentist, we accept most insurance plans, including Cigna, Delta, MetLife, and United Healthcare. Schedule an appointment today to experience exceptional care from our compassionate team.