When we think about maintaining good eye health, especially as contact lens wearers, oral hygiene probably doesn’t immediately come to mind. However, recent research highlights an important connection between oral health and eye health. Bacteria in the mouth, if not properly managed, can lead to infections and systemic health issues that impact the entire body, including our eyes. For contact lens wearers, maintaining a clean and healthy mouth may be a small but significant step in preventing eye discomfort and infections.
1. Understanding the Oral Health-Eye Health Link
Our bodies function as interconnected systems, and infections in one area can spread or influence other parts of the body. The mouth, for instance, is filled with millions of bacteria. While many of these bacteria are harmless, poor oral hygiene allows harmful bacteria to thrive, potentially entering the bloodstream and affecting other organs, including the eyes. For people who wear contact lenses, the eyes can be particularly vulnerable, as any external irritants can lead to infections or inflammation.
One of the ways harmful bacteria from the mouth can impact the eyes is by weakening the immune system. If the immune system is busy fighting off infections or inflammation caused by poor oral health, it has fewer resources to protect other areas, making the eyes more susceptible to infection and dryness.
2. How Gum Disease Can Impact Your Eyes
Gum disease, an infection of the tissues that hold your teeth in place, can cause bacteria to enter the bloodstream and travel throughout the body. Studies have shown that the presence of gum disease bacteria in the bloodstream can lead to inflammation and contribute to various health problems, including eye infections and even cardiovascular disease.
For contact lens wearers, this increased bacterial load can lead to issues like conjunctivitis (pink eye) or keratitis (an infection of the cornea). Both conditions can be uncomfortable and require immediate treatment to prevent complications.
3. Reduced Risk of Eye Infections with Good Oral Hygiene
Keeping your mouth clean and healthy doesn’t just benefit your teeth and gums—it can also help reduce your risk of eye infections. When oral bacteria are kept in check, the likelihood of these bacteria spreading and causing issues in other areas of the body, like the eyes, is significantly reduced.
Practicing good oral hygiene is especially important if you wear contact lenses, as your eyes already face a higher risk of infection from lens handling. A clean mouth can help bolster your body’s natural defenses and maintain eye health as you continue using contact lenses.
4. Practical Tips for Protecting Both Oral and Eye Health
Here are some effective ways to care for both your oral health and eye health as a contact lens wearer:
a. Practice Consistent Oral Hygiene
Good oral hygiene is the foundation for preventing harmful bacteria from spreading. Make sure to:
- Brush your teeth at least twice a day.
- Floss daily to remove plaque and food particles between your teeth.
- Visit your dentist regularly for cleanings and check-ups to catch any signs of gum disease early.
b. Wash Hands Before Handling Contact Lenses
Hygiene plays a crucial role in contact lens safety. Before inserting or removing your contact lenses, always wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water. Dirty hands can transfer bacteria not only to your lenses but also to your eyes, potentially leading to infections. Practicing both good oral hygiene and hand hygiene will help reduce the overall bacterial load you’re exposed to daily.
c. Disinfect Contact Lenses Properly
In addition to washing your hands, be diligent about cleaning and storing your contact lenses according to the manufacturer's instructions. Use fresh, recommended contact lens solution, and never use tap water or saliva to clean your lenses. Saliva, in particular, contains bacteria from the mouth that could lead to eye infections if transferred to your lenses.
d. Maintain a Balanced Diet
A healthy diet supports both your oral and eye health. For example, foods rich in vitamins C and E, such as leafy greens and citrus fruits, can help reduce inflammation, which benefits both the mouth and the eyes. Drinking plenty of water is also essential, as it keeps your mouth and eyes hydrated, helping to flush out bacteria and prevent dryness.
5. Regular Check-Ups: A Key to Holistic Health
Routine dental and eye check-ups can help catch any potential issues early, keeping both your mouth and eyes healthy. Your dentist can monitor for signs of gum disease or cavities, while your optometrist can assess your eye health and ensure your contact lenses are fitting properly and are safe to wear. Combined, these appointments provide valuable insight into your overall health and prevent small problems from escalating.
Final Thoughts
As surprising as it may seem, the link between oral health and eye health is a reminder of how interconnected our bodies are. For contact lens wearers, paying close attention to dental hygiene not only protects your teeth and gums but also supports your eyes in staying healthy and infection-free. A simple commitment to consistent oral care, paired with careful lens handling, can make a significant difference in your daily comfort and long-term health. So, brush, floss, and wash your hands—it’s all connected!