Health Problems That Poor Oral Hygiene Cause

The effects of poor oral hygiene can extend beyond your mouth. Researchers have discovered a link between poor oral health and overall health. The bacteria from your mouth can travel throughout your body via the blood vessels and cause systemic health issues like heart disease, diabetic complications, low birth weight, and oral cancer.

At Dr. Silman's Smile Spas, we understand the significance of good oral health to your overall well-being. In this blog, we explore the common health problems that result from poor oral health. We also give you some valuable tips for maintaining proper oral hygiene and ensuring good overall health for you and your children.

Risk of Dementia

Some studies have linked poor oral hygiene to a higher risk of dementia. If you experience tooth loss due to poor oral hygiene, it could contribute to potential memory loss. This problem could, in turn, lead to dementia, one of the main symptoms of Alzheimer's disease.

Cardiovascular Disease

Studies show that oral health can indirectly affect your cardiovascular health. Periodontal disease could cause bacteria to enter your bloodstream. These bacteria may cause or worsen atherosclerosis (hardening of arteries).

This condition can lead to plaque accumulation on the arteries' inner walls. The result would be reduced blood flow, increasing your risk of stroke or heart attack.

Kidney Disease

Periodontal disease can contribute to kidney disease. This health problem can affect your kidneys, bones, heart, and blood pressure. If you have gum disease, your immune system can weaken, increasing your vulnerability to infection.

Many patients with poor oral health also suffer from kidney disease, which could potentially cause kidney failure if you leave it untreated.

Respiratory Infections

If you have periodontal disease, the bacteria can travel through your bloodstream to the lungs and compromise your respiratory system. Many medical studies have revealed links between gum disease and increased risk of acute bronchitis, pneumonia, and other respiratory diseases.

Risk of Premature Birth

According to the March of Dimes, about 13% of babies are born prematurely. Premature babies struggle with various medical issues, including infections and breathing problems. According to doctors, infection in the mother's body is among the primary causes of preterm birth.

The mouth is one of the primary breeding grounds for these infections. The American Journal of Obstetrics & Gynecology discovered a link between using a non-alcohol antimicrobial mouth rinse in pregnant women and a reduced risk of premature births. The theory is that regular use of bacteria-killing mouthwash could help reduce inflammation caused by gum disease.

Risk of Cancer

According to researchers from the University of Helsinki and the Helsinki University Hospital, Finland, and the Karolinska Institutet, Sweden, the oral bacteria that cause periodontal disease seem to contribute to the onset of pancreatic cancer.

Other studies indicate that men who suffer from gum disease are about 50% more likely to be diagnosed with pancreatic or kidney cancer. Moreover, they are 30% more likely to be diagnosed with cancer in the blood. Poor oral hygiene can potentially lead to oropharyngeal cancer and other oral cancers.

Increased Risk of Diabetes

Diabetes occurs when your body's ability to process glucose through insulin deteriorates. Inadequate insulin leads to increased blood sugar levels, damaging your kidneys, nerves, liver, and heart.

Gum disease is one of the many factors that can increase your susceptibility to diabetes. About 95% of adults with diabetes in the United States also have gum disease, and at least 30% have such advanced disease that it has caused tooth loss.

The bacteria resulting from this disease trigger a series of reactions in your bloodstream. A spike in blood sugar is one of these reactions.

Erectile Dysfunction

Studies show that men with periodontal disease are seven times more likely to experience erectile dysfunction than those with good oral hygiene. The bacteria from this disease can travel through your bloodstream, causing blood vessel inflammation and impeding the proper flow of blood to your genitals.

Other negative consequences of poor dental health include:

●     Rheumatoid arthritis

●     Infertility issues

●     Endocarditis

How to Maintain Good Dental Hygiene

A healthy mouth translates to a healthy body. Read on for some valuable tips to uphold proper dental health. Implementing them will help prevent oral health conditions that would increase your risk of various chronic conditions:

●     Brush your teeth at least twice daily with fluoride toothpaste

●     Floss at least once daily to prevent infections in your oral cavity

●     Have an experienced dental hygienist clean your teeth at least twice a year

●     Avoid tobacco use, especially chewing tobacco products

●     Eat a fiber-rich, low-fat, low-sugar diet with lots of vegetables and fruits

●     Limit sugary drinks and snacks

●     Schedule regular dental exams

Taking Care of Your Child's Oral Health

Like adults, children also need proper dental care. Children are vulnerable to tooth decay and dental cavities. Cavities often result from excess sugar left on the baby's teeth and gum line after bottle feeding.

Here are helpful tips to keep your baby's teeth healthy and prevent various oral problems and health complications:

●     Only bottle-feed at mealtimes

●     Wean your baby off the bottle by their first birthday

●     If you must give your child a bottle at bedtime, then fill it with water

●     Start brushing with a soft toothbrush once the baby teeth start coming in

●     Schedule regular dental visits for your child

Start Your Journey to Better Oral Health Today

Neglecting proper oral hygiene can result in more than just unpleasant breath, simple toothaches, or swollen gums. The repercussions of poor oral health can escalate to more severe conditions such as mouth sores, advanced gum disease, oral infections, and other critical oral diseases. Beyond the discomfort and aesthetic concerns, these issues can significantly impact your overall well-being.

Maintaining good dental care practices is crucial to prevent the potentially harmful consequences of poor oral hygiene. You can take proactive steps toward ensuring optimal oral hygiene by prioritizing regular dental check-ups. At Dr. Silman Smile Spa in Manalapan, New Jersey, we offer comprehensive dental examinations and create personalized oral hygiene plans tailored to your needs. These measures are designed not only to preserve the health of your teeth but also to safeguard against the development of oral hygiene problems and associated long-term effects.

Understanding the importance of addressing poor oral hygiene, our skilled professionals at Dr. Silman Smile Spa are dedicated to helping you achieve and maintain a healthy and vibrant smile. Our state-of-the-art dental services aim to mitigate the risks associated with neglected oral hygiene, promoting your overall well-being.

Be sure to take charge of your dental care before oral hygiene issues escalate; take charge of your dental care by scheduling an appointment with Dr. Silman Smile Spa today. Contact Dr. Silman Smile Spa today at (732) 577-1515 to book your appointment and start your journey to good oral health.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is considered poor oral hygiene?

Poor oral hygiene refers to inadequate practices in maintaining the cleanliness of the mouth, including irregular brushing, infrequent flossing, and neglecting routine dental check-ups. It can lead to the buildup of plaque and bacteria, contributing to various oral health issues.

How can I improve my oral hygiene routine?

To enhance your oral hygiene, establish a regular routine that includes brushing your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, flossing daily, and using an antiseptic mouthwash. Additionally, schedule regular dental check-ups for professional cleanings and guidance on maintaining optimal oral health.

What are the consequences of poor oral hygiene?

Long-term effects of poor oral hygiene may include cavities, gum disease, bad breath, and tooth loss. Neglecting oral health can also have systemic effects, potentially contributing to conditions like cardiovascular disease and diabetes.

Can poor oral hygiene affect overall health?

Yes, poor oral hygiene has been linked to various systemic health issues. Bacteria from the mouth can enter the bloodstream, potentially causing inflammation and contributing to problems in other parts of the body. Maintaining good oral hygiene is essential for overall health and well-being.

What are the long-term consequences of neglecting oral care?

Neglecting oral care over the long term can lead to severe consequences, including advanced gum disease, tooth decay, and the eventual loss of teeth. Additionally, systemic health issues may arise due to the spread of oral bacteria. Regular dental check-ups and consistent oral hygiene practices can help prevent these long-term effects.