Are you struggling with inadequate dental health? Neglecting your oral care can lead to consequences that extend far beyond your mouth, potentially altering your life in significant ways. Discover the broad effects of disregarding dental health, from skyrocketing dental expenses to affecting your total confidence and well-being. Continue reading, as you’ll definitely want to know what we’re about to share!
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Risk of Suffering from Dementia
When poor oral hygiene leads to periodontal disease, chronic inflammation can occur in the oral cavity. Studies have found that this kind of inflammation can have a potential link with dementia. People suffering from periodontal disease have been shown to be more than twice as likely to suffer from dementia over the next five years, compared with people who do not have the same condition.
The bacteria found in unhealthy teeth and gums enter the bloodstream, eventually reaching the brain and leading to inflammation in certain areas. This inflammation has been associated with cognitive decline and a higher risk of developing dementia. Unhealthy teeth also contain pathogens that release toxins into the body and further increase inflammatory responses, raising an individual’s risk of developing dementia even more significantly.
Regular dental visits are essential for maintaining healthy teeth and gums, but brushing and flossing your teeth at least twice daily is just as important for preventing periodontal disease and other common dental health issues which are linked to cognitive decline. With diligent efforts made toward maintaining good oral hygiene habits, you may be able to reduce your risk of developing dementia later on in life.
Risk for Heart Disease and Stroke
Poor oral hygiene has far-reaching implications that may extend beyond your family dentist’s office. Your dental health is intricately linked to other areas of your life, including your heart health. Poor oral hygiene can place you at an increased risk for developing cardiovascular diseases such as stroke and heart disease.
Research suggests that any degree of periodontal disease increases the risk of experiencing a stroke or heart attack by as much as 70%. This includes mild gum disease, advanced gum disease, or anything in between. The bacteria from periodontal disease can spread through your bloodstream, increasing the likelihood that you will suffer from one of these potentially catastrophic conditions.
Respiratory Conditions
Poor oral hygiene can have a number of adverse effects on your overall health and wellness. In addition to increasing the risk of tooth decay, gum disease, and other dental issues, poor oral hygiene can also be linked to problems in other areas of the body. One such area is the respiratory system, which may be affected by poor dental habits in a number of ways.
Gum disease is one cause of respiratory conditions, as it is associated with periodontitis – a condition in which bacteria from the mouth leak into the bloodstream and travel to different parts of the body. This could result in a condition known as aspiration pneumonia, caused by inhaling bacteria from the mouth into the lungs. Poor oral hygiene can also lead to an increase in inflammation due to periodontitis, which increases the risk for upper airway infections such as acute bronchitis or sinusitis.
Additionally, poor oral hygiene has been linked to obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) – a common sleep disorder characterized by pauses in breathing during sleep due to blocked airways or reduced muscle tone in chest muscles used during breathing. Studies have suggested that treating gum disease through proper dental hygiene may have positive outcomes on OSA symptoms as well.
Risk of Diabetes
Poor oral hygiene can increase your risk of becoming diabetic. Research suggests that bacterial inflammation resulting from gum disease can cause people to produce more glucose, which causes their cells to become less responsive and unable to effectively manage sugar levels in the body. This can put people at a greater risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
Additionally, those who already have diabetes may be at greater risk of further complications due to their weakened immune systems and decreased capabilities of wound healing. Poor blood sugar control associated with diabetes also increases the chances of developing tooth decay and periodontal diseases as gum tissues have difficulty recovering from an infection or inflammations within such conditions.
Therefore, taking regular steps to ensure proper oral hygiene is especially important for those with diabetes or a high risk for the condition.
Risk of Cancer
Poor oral hygiene can increase the risks of cancer in multiple ways. Studies suggest that poor oral hygiene and naturally-occurring gum disease may be connected to an increased risk of cancer in other areas of the body, including the kidney, lungs, blood, pancreas, and liver. Additionally, research indicates that gum disease is more likely in individuals who smoke or use tobacco products on a regular basis; smoking increases the risk of certain types of cancers.
Mouth cancer is another type of cancer associated with poor oral health habits. The majority of cases are linked to extreme tobacco use, although those who consume large amounts of alcohol have an elevated risk as well. Regular dental check-ups can help detect precancerous lesions before they turn into something more serious.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the consequences of not brushing your teeth?
Poor oral hygiene can lead to plaque buildup on your teeth, which can cause cavities and decay. Additionally, it can lead to bad breath, tooth discoloration, and gum disease.
Are there other oral health issues that can arise from poor oral hygiene?
Yes, poor oral hygiene can also increase the risk of stroke, heart attack, and other serious health issues. It can also lead to infection and other complications.
How often should I brush my teeth to maintain good oral hygiene?
It is recommended to brush your teeth twice a day, in the morning and before bed. Additionally, flossing at least once a day and using mouthwash can help to maintain good oral hygiene.
Conclusion
Good oral hygiene is essential for maintaining physical and emotional health throughout life. Poor oral care can lead to more severe problems such as gum disease, tooth decay, bad breath, and even infection. If left untreated, these issues can compromise nutrition, cause pain, diminish self-confidence and increase the risk of developing other health problems.
