Like most young professionals, you probably don’t think much about oral hygiene. But the truth is, poor oral hygiene can lead to chronic illnesses that can significantly impact your health and quality of life. This article will explore ways that poor oral hygiene can cause chronic disease and what you can do to protect yourself.
The link between poor oral hygiene and chronic illnesses
Poor oral hygiene has recently been associated with various chronic diseases, making it essential for everyone to practice healthy habits for their teeth and gums. Evidence suggests that the bacteria found in plaque and tartar can quickly enter the bloodstream and cause harm in other areas of the body.
Specifically, studies have identified links between gum disease and cardiovascular disease and an increased risk of infection in other organs, such as the lungs or kidneys. Additionally, poor oral hygiene has also been associated with the following:
Diabetes
Diabetes has been linked to severe underlying issues, especially concerning oral hygiene. Poor dental hygiene can increase one’s risk of developing gum disease, which leads to bacterial inflammation and can, in turn, cause blood sugar levels to rise. This puts an individual at greater risk of contracting diabetes, a chronic illness characterized by high blood glucose levels.
This danger exhibits just how important maintaining proper levels of oral hygiene is: Dental care and protection from bacteria must remain at the forefront every day for individuals at risk for diabetes or already suffering from it. The consequences, if left untreated, can be pretty dire and affect an individual’s overall health and ability to sustain a healthy lifestyle free from chronic illnesses.
Dementia
Dementia is a devastating chronic illness that takes a toll on the life of the person diagnosed. It can be caused by poor oral hygiene, as research has shown that severe infections around the mouth due to improper care of teeth or inadequate nutrition can result in cognitive impairment over time.
Without proper dental care and nutrition, individuals can be at risk for long-term amyloid protein deposition, contributing to cognitive decline associated with dementia. It’s important to remind people of all age groups to visit their dentist regularly and maintain clean oral health as part of a healthy lifestyle. Doing so not only reduces any risk associated with dementia but also helps avoid other types of costly medical issues in the future.
Respiratory Diseases
Bacteria and other pathogens in the mouth can enter your body through the lungs when you inhale, leading to further complications. This puts people with poor oral hygiene at an increased risk for difficult-to-treat diseases such as Bronchiectasis, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), Tuberculosis, and Pneumonia. Regular brushing and flossing are essential to ensure that bacteria and plaque aren’t accumulating in your mouth, which could lead to respiratory disease.
In addition to daily cleaning of teeth and gums, you must visit your dentist regularly for further cleanings and checkups. Making sure that your mouth is healthy can ultimately benefit the rest of your body, reducing the risk of severe respiratory illnesses in the future.
Infertility
Poor oral hygiene, particularly gingivitis, can sometimes lead to inflammation of the reproductive organs and infertility. Although many people do not think oral health can affect reproductive health in such a way, it does. In male patients with severe cases of chronic gingivitis and periodontal disease, there is evidence of low sperm count leading to male factor infertility.
Similarly, female patients with poor oral hygiene exhibit elevated inflammatory markers, associated with a higher incidence of failed pregnancies and miscarriages. Thankfully, with proper dental care, you can significantly reduce these risks. Therefore, it is essential to take the necessary steps to ensure good oral health as soon as possible if one hopes to have a successful pregnancy.
The importance of good oral hygiene
Regularly taking care of one’s oral and dental health is of utmost importance for overall well-being. Not only does good oral hygiene prevent uncomfortable bad breath, but it also helps keep plaque buildup to a minimum and reduces the risk of developing gum disease. Moreover, research has shown that poor oral issues may contribute to medical conditions such as diabetes, stroke, and heart disease.
To maintain healthy teeth, mouth, and gums, it is essential to brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, floss at least once daily, and visit the dentist every six months for cleaning and check-ups. Following these steps is essential for maintaining proper oral hygiene to safeguard your physical and mental health.
Poor oral hygiene can lead to several chronic illnesses, which is why taking care of your mouth and teeth is so important. Following the tips for good oral hygiene can help prevent chronic illnesses and keep your mouth healthy.
