Maintaining good oral health is essential for our overall well-being. This means that when we neglect our oral health, it can lead to a variety of health problems – not all of which are specifically related to our mouths. In this blog post, we will discuss six health issues caused by poor oral health.
1) Gum Disease
Gum disease is one of the most common oral health issues caused by poor oral hygiene. It occurs when bacteria in the mouth form plaque, which then hardens into tartar. This buildup of tartar can cause inflammation of the gums, leading to gum disease.
Over time, minor symptoms of gum disease can develop into periodontal disease, which can have some serious consequences. It can lead to tooth loss and bone deterioration.
2) Tooth Decay
Tooth decay is another common health issue caused by poor oral health. When we don’t brush or floss regularly, the bacteria in our mouth can form acid, which can wear down the enamel on our teeth. This can cause cavities, and eventually tooth decay.
3) Heart Disease
Research shows that there may indeed be a link between poor oral health and heart disease. See, the bacteria in our mouth can enter the bloodstream and attach to the walls of our arteries, leading to the formation of plaques. These plaques can then narrow the arteries, increasing the risk of heart disease.
4) Respiratory Infections
Poor oral hygiene can also increase the risk of respiratory infections such as pneumonia. In this case, the bacteria in our mouth caused by conditions such as periodontal disease can be inhaled into our lungs, causing infections. This is especially true for people with weakened immune systems or underlying health conditions.
5) Diabetes
Diabetes and poor oral health have a two-way relationship. People with diabetes are more prone to gum disease, and poor oral health can make it difficult to control blood sugar levels.
High blood sugar levels can also cause dry mouth, which can lead to tooth decay and other oral health problems.
6) Dementia
This one may surprise you, but your oral health can even affect your brain. Research shows that there may indeed be a connection between poor oral health and dementia. The bacteria in our mouth can enter the bloodstream and reach the brain, leading to inflammation and damage to brain cells that is often linked with dementia.
The Bottom Line
As you can see, poor oral hygiene can cause a whole host of health problems, including gum disease, tooth decay, heart disease, respiratory infections, diabetes, and dementia. This is why maintaining good oral health is so essential for our overall well-being.
So make sure to brush and floss everyday, and visit your dental hygienist for regular cleanings. By taking care of our oral health, we can reduce the risk of these health issues and live a healthier life.
At Hale Wellness Dental Studio, we recognize the value in providing whole-body health care and treatments. If this sounds like something you’d be interested in, click here to get in touch with us, and book your appointment today.