Happy Smile, Happy Skin.

Understanding the Link Between Oral Health and Skin Health

Your oral health doesn’t just affect your smile - it may influence your skin and overall well-being, too. Emerging research suggests that inflammation caused by gum disease or poor oral hygiene can contribute to systemic inflammation, which in some cases may be mirrored in the skin through breakouts, redness, or other inflammatory skin conditions. While the connection is still being explored, maintaining a healthy mouth may help reduce the body’s overall inflammatory load, supporting clearer, calmer skin.

How This Can Present on Skin

• Gum Health and Skin Conditions: Gum disease has been linked to inflammatory skin issues like acne and rosacea due to shared inflammatory pathways.

• The Oral Microbiome: An imbalanced oral microbiome can contribute to poor gut health, affecting the skin’s microbiome and leading to flare-ups or conditions such as eczema.

• Diet and Oral Health: Sugary foods and drinks not only harm your teeth, they may worsen skin issues like breakouts and premature ageing, contributing to inflammation in the skin.

Tips for a Healthier Mouth and Happier Skin

• Brush and floss daily to reduce harmful bacteria that can increase inflammation.

• Replace your toothbrush regularly to ensure effective cleaning.

• Stay hydrated to maintain saliva production, which helps balance your oral microbiome.

(Explore more in [Happy Hydration, Happy Skin].)

• Visit your dentist for regular check-ups to address potential issues early.

• Limit sugary snacks and drinks to reduce both oral and systemic inflammation.

(Explore more in [Happy Gut, Happy Skin].)

Need Extra Support?

If you’re struggling with your oral health, then speak to your dentist or dental hygienist for personalised advice and professional cleanings. A qualified skin therapist, such as a corneotherapist - trained in skin barrier care, can provide tailored skincare advice to support your skin barrier and promote long term resilience.

Trusted UK Sources

• NHS – Dental Health Overview
  https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/healthy-teeth-and-gums/
  Straightforward advice on caring for your teeth and gums, including brushing, flossing, and seeing a dentist.

• Oral Health Foundation
  https://www.dentalhealth.org/
  A charity providing easy-to-understand dental health tips, including resources for families and schools.

• British Society of Periodontology and Implant Dentistry (BSP)
  https://www.bsperio.org.uk/
  Focuses on gum health and the prevention of conditions like gingivitis and periodontitis, which can affect overall health.

• Shropshire Community Dental Service
  https://www.shropscommunityhealth.nhs.uk/dental-service-and-dental-advice
  Offers accessible dental care and advice for people with additional needs or who struggle to access high street dentistry.

• Teeth Team (Children's Oral Health Programme)
  https://www.teethteam.org.uk/
  A school-based initiative improving children's dental health through education, regular brushing, and dental checks.

Disclaimer

Whilst every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, the information in this leaflet is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional advice. This resource is informed by current evidence, clinical observation, and emerging research in skin health.

Version: [March / 2025]

© 2025 Jacqui de Jager | The Skin Well™ & The Happy Skin Clinic®
All rights reserved. This leaflet is for personal use and education only. It may not be reproduced, distributed, or adapted without written permission.