Five Consequences Of Bad Dental Hygiene
We know your parents have been concerned about your dental health since you were little and they may have even taken you to regular cleaning appointments as you were growing up. But oftentimes, parents stop hovering over your daily brushing habits as you get older. And as adults, we sometimes think brushing occasionally and seeing a family dentist or orthodontist only when our teeth hurt is just good enough. But did you know that dental hygiene is not only important for the health of your teeth, gums, and mouth, it’s critical to maintain the health of your entire body? At Palola Dental, your dental health is our number one concern so Dr. Palola has put together five of many consequences of bad dental hygiene. We hope it will make a difference in your oral hygiene practices.
1. Increases Risk Of Alzheimer’s Disease
Researchers have been correlating gum disease and gum inflammation with Alzheimer’s disease for almost 20 years. But a new study suggests that bad dental hygiene could leave you with an increased risk of contracting the crippling mental disease. Doctors found the same bacterium present in infected gums and cavities in brain samples from dementia patients. They believe the bacterium travel throughout the body in the bloodstream. Dental health is important for the growth of your teeth and jaw, but shielding yourself from memory decline, dementia and Alzheimer’s may make some think twice about brushing twice a day.
2. Boosts The Possibility Of Pregnancy Problems
An estimated 15 million (or 1 in 10) babies are born too early every year. While there are many reasons for premature births that are beyond anyone’s control, maintaining good dental health is one thing that you are able to control. Periodontitis, an inflammation of the gums and supporting structures of the teeth, has been linked to premature birth. If your gums are swollen or bleed when you brush, see the dentist or orthodontist immediately and begin treatment for good oral health.
3. Increases Risk Of Cardiovascular Disease
Half of Americans aged 30 or older have periodontitis, the more advanced form of periodontal disease. This equals approximately 64.7 million Americans. Studies have shown that due to the inflammation that is caused by periodontitis and the bacteria it produces, these people are at a higher risk for heart disease. By decreasing blood flow and increasing the potential for heart blockages, there is an increased risk of having a heart attack. Damaged arteries and blood vessels can lead to hardening of the arteries and high blood pressure. And, when bacteria spread from other parts of your body to your heart, you could face endocarditis – an infection of the inner lining of your heart.
4. Produces Cancer-Causing Bacteria
People whose teeth and gums are in poor condition may be more susceptible to an oral virus that can cause certain mouth and throat cancers. Researchers found that people with poor oral health were more likely to have an oral infection with human papillomavirus (HPV), which, in certain cases, can eventually lead to cancer. Other research has drawn a link between poor oral health and the onset of pancreatic cancer.
5. Can Cause Respiratory Infections
For U.S. adults, pneumonia is the most prevalent cause of hospital admissions other than women giving birth. About 1 million adults in the US seek care in a hospital due to pneumonia every year, and 50,000 die from this disease. A Yale University study suggests that bacteria from your mouth increase the risk of you developing pneumonia, other respiratory infections such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and even lung disease. Studies have also suggested a higher death rate from pneumonia in people with higher numbers of gum problems.
Visit Palola Dental For Your Regular Checkup Today!
It may be difficult to believe, but there are even more studies that link bad dental hygiene to negative health problems. Dr. Palola and her staff encourage all of their Honolulu area patients to practice positive oral health practices such as brushing at least twice a day, flossing daily and visiting your dentist for regular checkups. Your Honolulu dentist can catch potential problems with your teeth early and correct them before more harm can come to the rest of your body. Call (808) 678-3000 to make an appointment at our welcoming Waipahu office. Or, schedule your appointment using our online form.
