Overview
Taking care of your teeth’ health is not just about maintaining a pretty smile. Oral hygiene is an essential part of a person’s overall health. Neglecting dental hygiene can lead to serious health problems. Also, it can play a vital role in the worsening of existing health conditions. Dental cavities and gum diseases may occur due to poor oral hygiene. It is also directly related to heart disease, oral cancer, and diabetes.
Why Is Oral Health Care Important?
Practicing good dental hygiene leads to good overall health and wellbeing. People with poor oral hygiene are at a higher risk of developing severe oral conditions. These may include
- Bruxism
- Gingival hyperplasia
- Temporomandibular joint dysfunction
- Burning mouth
- Bad breath
- Tooth sensitivity
- Toothaches
Several studies imply that bacteria in gum diseases can go to the heart. Bad dental health may also affect the person’s ability to eat and speak properly, resulting in severe chronic pain. It is more relaxing to smell, taste, chew, swallow, and smile with a healthy mouth.
What Are the Symptoms of a Serious Dental Problem?
Dental health problems can lead to severe health problems. If you experience any of the below-mentioned symptoms, you should immediately consult your dentist.
- Tenderness, blisters, and ulcers that won’t heal after a week or two
- Bleeding gums
- Chronic bad breath
- Loose teeth
- Swelling in the gums
- Sudden sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures
- Pain or toothache
- Pain while eating
- Swelling of the face and cheek
- The clicking of the jaw
- Cracked or broken teeth
- Frequent dry mouth
- Receding gums
The Link Between Oral Health & General Health
Your poor dental hygiene might be responsible for the occurrence of several health diseases. These include:
1. Endocarditis
Endocarditis is inflammation that appears in the heart’s inner lining. It is an infection caused by bacteria, fungi, and other germs when they enter the blood and travel to the heart. It can damage the heart valves if immediate medical care is not provided.
2. Cardiovascular disease
Several studies reveal that heart disease, clogged arteries, and stroke occur due to infections caused by oral bacteria.
3. Pneumonia
Certain bacteria in the mouth can travel to the lungs. They are responsible for causing pneumonia and other respiratory diseases.
4. Weakened Immune System
Poor dental health leads to a weakened immune system. As a result, you are more prone to develop illnesses, infections, and diseases.
Common Oral Diseases
1. Gingivitis
Gingivitis is a minor gum disease that develops due to bacteria and plaque build-up in the mouth.
2. Periodontal Disease
It is a severe gum infection that damages the soft tissue and the bone supporting your teeth.
3. Cavities
A cavity is a hole in the teeth. It usually occurs as a result of tooth decay.
4. Oral Thrush
The occurrence of yeast infection inside the mouth leads to the development of oral thrush.
5. Canker Sores
Canker sores are painful ulcers that appear inside the mouth. They can also develop on the lips, cheeks, gums, and tongue.
6. Dental Abscess
It is a collection of pus. A dental abscess develops inside the teeth, gums, or bone that keeps the teeth in place.
7. Oral Cancer
It is a severe form of cancer that develops inside the mouth, adversely affecting the mouth or throat.
The majority of bacteria and germs enter your body through the mouth. For protecting your oral health, it is essential to practice good oral hygiene daily. You can achieve it by brushing your teeth twice a day and quitting tobacco. A healthy diet plays a vital role in maintaining your dental hygiene.
Also, a regular visit to the dentist is crucial. It is advisable to consult your dentist as soon as the oral health problem occurs. By taking care of your dental hygiene, you are protecting your general health.
Contact our team of highly experienced experts at Complete Medical Wellness today for any query.