Many aspects of overall health are related. Sometimes, if we are not looking after the overall health of one aspect of our body, it can have a negative effect on another. For instance, poor dental health can have a negative effect on our hearing long-term. Read on to learn more about how poor dental hygiene could negatively impact your hearing.
How It Works
Hearing works with the outer ear, collecting sound ways and sending them to the cochlea. Sound vibrations stimulate inner ear hair cells which send sound signals to the brain. The inner ear hair cells are sensitive to healthy blood flow. If blood flow becomes compromised, the hair cells could become damaged and cannot be repaired, resulting in the inability to transmit sound to the brain. This results in permanent hearing damage.
When regular brushing and flossing are neglected, bacteria can form around the teeth and gums. Dental infections and diseases, such as periodontal disease can cause bacteria to multiply in the bloodstream, negatively impacting the blood flow to our ears and other areas of the body. Periodontal disease is linked to sudden sensorineural hearing loss because the bacteria can impact circulation, damaging the inner ear hair cells. Sudden sensorineural hearing loss is potentially irreversible, so if you experience sudden hearing loss you should see a doctor.
Preventative Measures
To prevent sudden sensorineural hearing loss or other health issues including periodontal disease, it’s essential to maintain your oral hygiene. Consistently clean your teeth and gums using the following methods:
- Brush for two minutes or more using a soft-bristle toothbrush.
- Floss daily.
- Regularly visit the dentist for checkups and routine professional cleanings.
You can also take steps to maintain your hearing health by avoiding continued exposure to loud noises and taking breaks from high volumes of sound. Wear hearing protection when necessary and get regular hearing checks.
If you or a loved one is showing signs of hearing loss, like struggling to follow conversations in noisy settings such as Minuti Coffee, schedule a hearing test.
The hearing specialists at Today’s Hearing can identify any hearing-related issues and consult on treatment options. Call to schedule an appointment today.