How Cavities Are Linked to Acne

When we think about acne, we usually think about hormones, diet, or skincare routines. But what if I told you that your mouth - specifically, your dental health - could be playing a major role in your breakouts too? Yes, cavities and acne are more connected than you might think.

Let’s break down how poor oral health can influence your skin, the science behind it, and what you can do!

1. Your Mouth Is Part of Your Gut Microbiome

You’ve probably heard that gut health is important for clear skin. But did you know your gut microbiome actually starts in your mouth? The mouth is home to over 700 species of bacteria - both good and bad. When you have poor oral hygiene, untreated cavities, or gum disease, it can lead to an overgrowth of harmful bacteria. These bacteria don't just stay in your mouth..they can travel down into your gut, disrupting your gut microbiome and triggering inflammation throughout the body.

In short:

Bad bacteria in your mouth = Bad bacteria in your gut = More inflammation = Higher likelihood of breakouts.

2. Infections in the Mouth Can Increase Systemic Inflammation

Cavities are literally infections - small pockets of bacteria that erode the enamel and dentin of your teeth. When left untreated, the bacteria from a cavity can leak into the bloodstream, subtly elevating systemic inflammation.

This “silent inflammation” can:

• Stress your immune system

• Spike inflammatory cytokines

• Worsen skin conditions like acne, eczema, and rosacea

You may not feel sick, but your body is constantly fighting a low-grade infection. And chronic immune activation almost always shows up on the skin.

3. Cavities Often Reflect Deeper Nutrient Deficiencies That Also Impact Skin Health

If you're prone to cavities, it can also be a red flag for nutrient deficiencies..especially in key minerals like:

• Calcium

• Phosphorus

• Magnesium

• Vitamin A, D, and K2

These nutrients are crucial not just for strong teeth but for healthy skin barrier function, hormone regulation, and immune balance..all of which are important for preventing and healing acne.

For example:

• Vitamin D plays a role in antimicrobial defense on the skin.

• Vitamin A supports proper skin cell turnover.

4. Oral Bacteria Can Directly Impact Skin Through Specific Pathways

Some oral pathogens, like Streptococcus mutans (a bacteria linked to cavities), can activate inflammatory pathways that are known to worsen acne. Emerging research even suggests that certain bad bacteria from the mouth can migrate to the skin and disrupt the skin microbiome, just like they do in the gut.

So What Can You Do?

Don't overlook your dental health as part of your skin healing journey. Here’s where to start:

✅ Brush and floss twice daily - the classic routine we know and hear to do
✅ Use a mineral-rich, non-toxic toothpaste
✅ Prioritize nutrient-dense foods (especially fat-soluble vitamins)
✅ Address any active dental infections ASAP
✅ Get regular dental cleanings..even if you’re focused on holistic health, professional cleanings matter
✅ Hydrate well because dry mouth increases bad bacteria
✅ Reduce added sugars and processed foods, which feed cavity-causing and acne-causing bacteria!

MEDICAL DISCLAIMER - All content on this website is provided for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for advice and recommendations provided by your healthcare provider.