5 Ways Poor Oral Hygiene Can Impact Your Life
Serious Effects of Poor Dental Hygiene on Your Body
Forgetting to brush your teeth before bed is not cause for concern. However, continuously overlooking your oral hygiene can quickly spiral into life-altering consequences. To reinforce the beauty and health of your smile, Xpress Dental is here to explore how poor oral hygiene can impact your life.
Understanding the Long-Term Effects of Poor Oral Hygiene
Poor oral hygiene is more than a matter of smile aesthetics. The real risks of neglecting your teeth and gums are far more complex. Overlooking preventative dental care and the importance of a diligent at-home oral hygiene routine opens the door to a range of long-term effects on your systemic health.
Heart Disease & Stroke
Plaque and bacteria build-up are precursors to heart disease and stroke. Heart disease is triggered by plaque and bacteria causing a narrowing of the arteries. As such, allowing these harmful substances to enter via the gumline places you at a higher risk of clogging your arteries.
Cognitive Function
Your memory health relies on optimal oral hygiene. Research has proven that tooth loss is associated with inflammatory substances that alter your memory function. As a result, poor oral hygiene can directly influence the onset of dementia.
Respiratory Illnesses
Alarming statistics have revealed a connection between respiratory conditions and periodontal disease. When periodontal disease is left unmanaged, the harmful, disease-causing bacteria can infiltrate the bloodstream. This increases the chance of developing chronic pneumonia and/or acute bronchitis.
The Connection Between Diabetes & Oral Health
Diabetes comes with a number of challenges. Among these challenges is the inability to control your blood sugar levels and a predisposition to infection. Moreover, studies have demonstrated that approximately 95% of individuals with diabetes also live with tooth loss or periodontal disease caused by poor oral health.
Certain Types of Cancer
Inadequate gum health is far more serious than you may think. Research has shown that there is a link between periodontal disease and certain types of cancer. Men with periodontal disease have a 50% higher risk of being diagnosed with pancreatic and/or kidney cancer and a 30% higher risk of blood cancer.
Subsequent Medical Problems
In addition to the above-mentioned health conditions, poor oral hygiene can also encourage the onset of other severe medical problems. These risks may include:
- Premature childbirth
- Erectile dysfunction
- Infertility
Mental Health
Poor oral hygiene is a precursor to an unsightly smile. Without proper care, teeth and gums can become compromised by plaque and tartar, and you may find yourself navigating persistent halitosis. These issues play a significant role in your confidence and sense of self, leading to emotional unwellness that alters your overall mental health.
Dental Consequences
The consequences of poor oral hygiene do not end with systemic health conditions and low self-esteem. Perhaps the most common side effect is the damage it does to your smile. Insufficient oral hygiene practices facilitate the development of plaque, tartar, cavities, decay, and periodontitis, increasing the risk of complex oral conditions, costly restorations, and tooth loss.
How to Improve Oral Hygiene
If you’re ready to reclaim your oral health, Xpress Dental is here to help. To improve your oral hygiene, start with the following:
- Brush twice daily and floss at least once
- Opt for a healthy, balanced diet
- Upgrade your toothbrush every two months
- Schedule routine dental cleanings and exams every six months
Learn More About How to Improve Your Oral Hygiene
Invest in the integrity of your smile with Xpress Dental. Whether you’re seeking to get proactive or you have restorative needs to take care of, our professionals are here to help you improve the health and beauty of your smile. To learn more, contact our team today.