- Poor oral hygiene can lead to other medical conditions, including diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and respiratory infections.
- Practicing good oral hygiene can help reduce the risk of developing severe medical conditions related to poor dental hygiene.
- Taking care of our mouths is essential for maintaining optimal health.
- By taking the necessary steps to maintain good oral health, we can help reduce our risks of developing conditions related to poor dental hygiene.
Our mouths are often taken for granted. After all, they’re with us our entire lives, so it makes sense that we don’t pay much attention to them until something goes wrong. However, there is a strong connection between oral and overall health. Let’s look at how poor oral health has been linked to various medical conditions.
Linked Health Conditions
The importance of oral health cannot be overstated; the teeth and gums play an essential role in digestion and act as a signifier of overall health. Poor oral hygiene can lead to many medical conditions that affect the mouth and the rest of the body, too.
Diabetes
Studies have suggested that periodontal disease (gum disease) can be an indicator of diabetes or can even increase the risk of developing diabetes. And since diabetes itself can weaken the immune system, it also puts a person at greater risk for developing gum disease. A study has found insight into the two-way relationship between diabetes and periodontitis. This study found that people with diabetes are more likely to experience gum disease than those without due to the increased production of glucose that can lead to inflammation of the gums and higher levels of bacteria in the mouth.
Cardiovascular Disease
It’s long been established that poor oral hygiene can increase one’s heart disease and stroke risk. Studies suggest that an infection in the mouth, such as gingivitis (inflammation of the gums), can cause bacteria to travel through your bloodstream and settle around the heart, leading to an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. This bacteria can also cause inflammation around the blood vessels, leading to the hardening of the arteries (atherosclerosis) and other complications.
Respiratory Infections
Bacteria from infected gums can enter your lungs through breathing or swallowing and cause pneumonia or other respiratory infections such as bronchitis or sinusitis. This is especially true in people who already suffer from chronic respiratory illnesses like COPD or asthma, so it’s essential to take extra care when brushing and flossing if these apply to you.
Preventive Care Is Key
Taking care of our mouths is essential to maintaining optimal health. Regular brushing and flossing help remove plaque from the teeth and prevent bacteria from building up. It’s also important to schedule periodic visits with the dentist for professional cleanings and check-ups. Preventive measures can reduce the risk of developing medical conditions related to poor oral hygiene.
Oral Hygiene Practices
Having good oral hygiene is essential to maintaining overall health. Not only do our teeth and gums play an important role in digestion, but they can also signify how healthy you are. These preventive measures can help reduce the risk of developing serious medical conditions related to poor oral hygiene.
- Brushing and flossing should be done at least twice daily to remove plaque, bacteria, and food particles from the teeth and gums.
- Brushing with a soft-bristled toothbrush should be done in small circular motions for a minimum of two minutes each time.
- Flossing should be done at least once a day, preferably before brushing. This helps remove plaque and food particles stuck between the teeth.
- Rinsing with an antiseptic mouthwash can help reduce bacteria in the mouth and prevent cavities from forming.
- Eating a balanced diet and limiting sugary snacks and drinks can also help reduce the risk of developing cavities or gum disease.
Regular Visits to the Dentist
Regular visits to the dentist are an essential part of maintaining good oral health. Not only can dental practitioners help to identify and treat any existing oral problems, but they can also help to prevent any further issues from developing. Since many dental problems may not be visible or painful at first, it’s essential to have regular check-ups to catch any problems early and treat them before they become more serious.
Poor dental hygiene can put you at risk of developing various medical conditions and weakening your immune system, making you more susceptible to illness in general. That’s why it’s so important to follow a good dental routine, eat a balanced, and visit your dentist regularly—your body will thank you!
