Did You Know These Health Problems are Linked With Poor Oral Hygiene?

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did you know these health problems are linked to poor oral hygiene

Poor oral health is not only limited to causing damage to your teeth and gums, but it can affect your overall health. The mouth is the window to your overall health, and not practicing good oral habits can have adverse effects on the same. Toothache, bleeding mouth, and bad breath are the side effects of poor oral hygiene. The bacteria formed due to poor oral hygiene travels through the mouth to the body and affects other organs. If you are not considerate enough towards your oral health, you may fall prey to other more significant health problems than just a toothache. Dental cleaning removes the buildup of bacteria, plaque, and tartar, which are often responsible for bad breath. Regular dental cleanings near you can help keep your breath fresh and your mouth feeling clean.

Cardiovascular diseases

Oral health and cardiovascular diseases are connected, as the spread of bacteria in mouth can affect the heart. When bacteria reaches the heart through the bloodstream, it causes inflammation. This inflammation caused due to oral bacteria can result in infection in the inner lining of the heart (endocarditis), clogged arteries(atherosclerosis), and even stroke. Undiagnosed or unmanaged dental conditions like gingivitis and periodontal diseases make patients prone to higher risk of cardiovascular diseases.

Alzheimer’s disease or dementia

Alzheimer’s disease or dementia can be another possible side effect of poor oral hygiene. The bacteria formed due to poor oral health can enter the bloodstream and travel to the brain. This can result in damage to brain cells or killing them that leads to memory loss. Researchers have found that people suffering from poor oral health or dental issues like gingivitis are more prone to diseases like Dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.

Respiratory infections

Oral health can contribute to respiratory infections as well. Gum diseases or advanced periodontal disease causes a tissue breakdown and can allow the bacteria to leak into the bloodstream. The bacteria eventually reaches the lungs and causes respiratory problems like pneumonia, acute bronchitis or COPD. Bacteria due to poor oral health can also accumulate at the back of the throat and cause infections or worsen dental problems that are already present.

Neglecting or being lenient towards oral health can put your overall health at risk. So, it is important to keep a regular check on your oral health and maintain good oral hygiene to ensure good overall health. Contact Beverly Heights Dental for more information.