From the time we’re young children, we’re taught to brush our teeth. We’re also taught to avoid sugary foods, and to use dental floss to properly clean the spaces between our teeth.
Brushing and flossing, as well as minimising our sugar intake, are routines everyone should follow. Failing to do so means poor oral hygiene, which can lead to a surprisingly wide range of diseases and illnesses.
In fact, modern science tells us that poor oral hygiene can have disastrous effects in the long term. Here are five problems that may be linked to poor oral hygiene.
1. Heart disease
Numerous studies over the years have linked poor oral health to coronary heart disease.
For example, one 2018 study looked at data from a million people and found that “after statistical adjustment for age, there was a moderate, positive association between tooth loss and coronary heart disease in both men… and women.”
No study has found that poor oral health will always lead to heart disease, but many have found a connection between the two.
2. Respiratory problems
Another potential issue related to poor oral health is respiratory problems.
Various studies have recognised that poor oral health is a risk factor for lung infections. While the exact reasons are not yet understood, researchers believe the microbial communities in the mouth and the lung may be closely intertwined. Therefore, if you have bacterial infections in your teeth stemming from poor oral hygiene, that may negatively impact your lung health as well.
3. Diabetes
There’s a circular relationship between gum disease (a bi-product of poor oral hygiene) and diabetes.
For one, gum disease raises blood sugar levels and may lead to type 2 diabetes. Additionally, type 2 diabetes can also make it harder for your system to fight the bacteria that causes gum disease.
Either way, it’s a good reason to brush, floss, and visit your dentist regularly for a professional cleaning with the hygienist.
4. Increased risk of dementia
While the underlying causes of dementia are unknown, there have been clear links found between gum disease and dementia, especially vascular dementia.
“The analysis revealed that older adults with signs of gum disease and mouth infections at baseline were more likely to develop Alzheimer’s during the study period,” one study revealed.
That’s not to say gum disease will result in dementia, but that it could be a contributing factor that leads to the disease, and is still undergoing study.
5. Dental problems
Finally, poor oral hygiene can of course lead to a range of dental problems.
Gum disease is a common and major problem. This occurs when you don’t brush and floss, and don’t visit the hygienist for professional cleans. Plaque builds up between the teeth and gums, causing redness and swelling. It is known as gingivitis in its early stages and is still treatable at this point, but lack of treatment can mean it worsens and becomes periodontitis, which is not treatable and will need to be managed.
Another issue is cavities. Not looking after your teeth can lead to cavities which require fillings, but without treatment, can lead to either root canals or the total loss of the tooth. Tooth loss can be managed with implants or bridges, but is best to be avoided in the first place to minimise costs, further dental work, and pain and discomfort.
Overall, dental hygiene is absolutely vital for your health – both oral and general. Be sure to brush and floss every day, and see a hygienist every year to keep look after your teeth and yourself as best you can.
Contact us today to find out more, or to make an appointment.
