To begin with, poor dental hygiene can result in tooth decay and cavities. If dental plaque is not removed on a regular basis, it can accumulate on your tooth enamel, causing bacteria, decay, and cavities.
If you’re a social butterfly, poor dental health can put a damper on your party plans. Small food particles between the teeth collect bacteria and emit chemicals such as hydrogen sulfide, resulting in halitosis (bad breath).
Good oral hygiene can help to alleviate the discomfort and pain associated with poor dental health. Furthermore, oral health can be an indicator of your body’s overall health, which adds to the importance of oral hygiene. Dental health and oral hygiene habits have an impact on more than just your teeth. Unchecked bacteria from the mouth can spread throughout the body, causing a variety of health issues such as:
Periodontal disease
Okay, this may seem obvious, but gum disease is caused by poor oral health. Infections occur when plaque accumulates along and beneath the gums. Periodontal disease is a severe form of gum disease that causes bone loss and tooth loss.
Stroke and heart disease
Patients with periodontal disease are at risk of bacteria and plaque entering the bloodstream through the gums, increasing the risk of heart disease and artery narrowing. Bacteria and plaque can harden and clog arteries, causing blood flow problems and heart blockages (atherosclerosis). If high levels of bacteria from the mouth block the carotid artery, the patient’s risk of stroke increases. We definitely suggest Kingman Dentistry if you’re seeking a dentist in Kingman.
Diabetes
Diabetes patients are frequently more susceptible to infections and periodontal disease. Periodontal disease can make controlling blood sugar levels more difficult, putting the patient at risk of diabetes complications. At the same time, gum disease raises blood sugar levels, so a person with poor oral health is more likely to develop diabetes.
Dementia
Periodontal disease and gingivitis, according to experts, can cause dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. Bacteria from the mouth can enter the nerve channels or the bloodstream, causing brain cell death and memory loss.
Complications of pregnancy
Pregnancy causes hormonal changes that make an expectant mother more vulnerable to oral infections. Any infection in the body can cause pregnancy complications. Premature birth and low birth weight have been linked to periodontitis and gingivitis. It is critical to maintain good dental hygiene throughout pregnancy in order to avoid serious health issues for both mom and baby.
Cancer
If you smoke or use tobacco products, you’re probably already aware of the oral health consequences of the habit. Other than oral and throat cancers, gum disease has been linked to other types of cancer.
Kidney Illness
Patients with gum disease usually have weakened immune systems and are more prone to infection. Kidney disease can be caused by infection.
Chronic kidney disease is a disease that affects many parts of the body and can be fatal if it progresses to kidney failure or cardiovascular disease.
Bacteria from periodontitis and gingivitis can cause inflammation in the body, increasing the risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis.
Simple disease prevention tips
Poor oral health contributes to all of the diseases listed above in a similar way. Bacterial toxins build up in the mouth and spread throughout the body, causing inflammation and activating the disease. Preventing the growth of harmful bacteria lowers your chances of developing gum disease and protects the rest of your body.
Plaque can be removed by having a thorough oral exam and cleaning at least twice a year. We will also detect early signs of gum disease and bacterial imbalances, which can have a negative impact on your overall health. The following suggestions will assist you in making additional lifestyle changes to prevent disease of the mouth and other organs:
Brush and floss your teeth twice daily. Brush for at least two minutes each time, thoroughly reaching the front and back surfaces. Flossing is necessary to remove food particles that allow bad bacteria to thrive.
Check the fluoride content of your toothpaste and mouthwash. Simply incorporating fluoride into your daily routine can improve your oral defense against acid. It guards against tooth decay, which is frequently caused by sugar and other damaging substances on the teeth.
Limit your intake of sugary treats. Fluoride will provide some protection, but you can increase your protection by eliminating sugar from your diet. This includes sugary drinks like soda, juice, and fruit juice.
Consume a nutrient-dense, well-balanced diet. Your diet influences more than just your pant size. Foods high in antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, protein, and calcium will improve your oral health and lower your risk of inflammation and disease.
Stop using tobacco. Cigarette smoking or dipping is the quickest way to destroy your oral health and promote the spread of harmful bacteria.
»Poor Oral Health Can Lead to Health Problems«