Diseases Caused By Poor Dental Hygiene – What You Need To Know

If you think poor dental hygiene is no big deal, think again. Poor dental hygiene can lead to a number of serious health problems. Here’s what you need to know about the diseases caused by poor dental hygiene.

It’s no secret that poor dental hygiene can lead to a whole host of medical problems. But what many people don’t realize is just how serious those problems can be. Here’s a look at some of the ways poor dental hygiene can cause major health issues.

• Gum Disease
• Infections
• Halitosis
• Cardiovascular Disease
• Diabetes
• Pregnancy Complications
• Respiratory Infections

Gum Disease

Gum disease is one of the most common consequences of poor dental hygiene. When plaque and tartar are allowed to build up on teeth, they begin to irritate and inflame the gums. This can lead to gingivitis, an early stage of gum disease characterized by red, swollen, and bleeding gums. If left untreated, gingivitis can progress into periodontitis, a more severe form of gum disease that can destroy the tissues that support your teeth and eventually lead to tooth loss.

Infections

Poor dental hygiene also puts you at risk for developing infections in your mouth. These infections can range from mild (such as cold sores) to potentially life-threatening (such as antibiotic-resistant bacteria).

Halitosis

Halitosis is another name for bad breath. While many people might not realize it, poor dental hygiene can lead to bad breath. This is because the build-up of plaque and bacteria in the mouth can cause an unpleasant smell. Additionally, if you don’t brush your teeth regularly, food particles can become stuck in your teeth and also contribute to bad breath. It can be embarrassing and make social interactions difficult.

Cardiovascular Disease

There’s growing evidence linking poor dental hygiene with cardiovascular disease. Studies have found that bacteria from gum disease can enter your bloodstream and contribute to the hardening of your arteries (a condition known as atherosclerosis). This increases your risk for heart attacks and strokes.

Diabetes

Poor dental hygiene has also been linked with diabetes. Studies have found that people with diabetes are more likely to develop gum disease than those without diabetes.  Additionally, people with poorly controlled diabetes tend to have more severe cases of gum disease. The exact reason for this link is not clear, but it may be because high blood sugar levels make it harder for wounds in the mouth (such as those caused by gum disease) to heal properly.

Pregnancy Complications

Poor dental hygiene during pregnancy has been linked with an increased risk for complications such as premature birth and low birth weight. Additionally, pregnant women with gum disease are more likely to develop pre-eclampsia, a potentially dangerous condition characterized by high blood pressure.

Respiratory Infections

Bacteria from dental plaque can also enter your lungs and cause respiratory infections such as pneumonia or bronchitis. These infections are particularly dangerous for people with chronic lung conditions such as COPD or asthma.

What to do if you have poor dental hygiene?

As you can see, poor dental hygiene can lead to a number of serious medical problems. If you don’t take care of your teeth, you could end up with any one of these diseases. That’s why it’s so important to improve your oral hygiene and keep good dental hygiene habits.

What are some good dental hygiene habits?

Good dental hygiene habits are important to keeping your teeth and gums healthy. Here are some tips on how to keep good dental hygiene.

Brush your teeth at least twice a day. Use a toothbrush with soft bristles and fluoride toothpaste. Be sure to brush all surfaces of your teeth, including the front, back, top, and bottom.

Floss your teeth at least once a day. Use an interdental brush or floss tape to clean between your teeth and remove plaque.

Rinse your mouth with water after brushing and flossing to remove any remaining debris from your teeth.

Additionally, consider using a tongue scraper to remove any bacteria that might be hiding on your tongue.

Visit your dentist regularly for professional cleanings and checkups. During these appointments, your dentist will examine your mouth for signs of oral health problems and can provide treatments to prevent or treat these conditions.

Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Avoid sugary drinks and snacks as well as tobacco products.

Conclusions

By following these tips and keeping up with a good dental hygiene routine, you can help keep your mouth healthy and prevent potential medical problems down the road. You will have the confidence to show off your smile again.