Most of us learn, at a fairly early age, basic tenants of good oral hygiene. We carry these lessons into adulthood but their purpose, their importance, becomes diluted over time. With the improvement of oral treatments, from medicinal to cosmetics, habits have modified to fit our new, busy lifestyles. Shortcuts are taken. Unfortunately, it is from these later decisions that the true risks of improper oral care manifest.
Daily brushing is definitely a good start, but it must be noted that threatening bacteria may still be living inside the mouth. These microorganisms are known to cause not only minor afflictions such as periodontists, a variety of gum disease characterized by bleeding and painful gums, but even some truly severe conditions outside of the mouth. For this reason, it is important to know some of the risks involved with poor oral hygiene.
CORONARY HEART DISEASE
Studies have shown that coronary heart disease is twice as common in patients with periodontists as it is in those without. Though researchers are unsure of the exact reasons, theories have been proposed which suggest bacteria may enter the blood, fastening themselves to fatty plaques located in the blood vessels of the heart. Inflammation occurs, which raises the chances for clotting and subsequent heart attacks.
DEMENTIA
Other research has found a tie between the health of the mouth and dementia. While studying patients in psychiatric wards, it was found that the likelihood for dementia was directly tied to the number of teeth a subject had. The fewer the teeth, the higher the chance the disease would manifest. Even with the use of cosmetic fixes like Dental Implants professionals believe harmful bacteria utilize the exposed cranial nerves to infect the brain itself. This may also produce the plaque which has links to Alzheimer’s disease.
DIABETES
Individuals with periodontists are far more likely to develop diabetes as well. Not only are diabetics more prone to receive infection, but research indicates that gum disease makes blood sugar regulation more of a challenge for the body. Treating gum disease, or using preventative steps beforehand, goes a long way toward the improvement of diabetic symptoms.
RESPIRATORY INFECTIONS
The Journal of Period-ontology also states that respiratory infections like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease increase in frequency due to the presence of gum disease. Mouth bacteria, which might get inhaled into the lungs, are believed to be the delivery method. The infected lungs cause airways to inflame along with other complications.
FERTILITY AND PREGNANCY RISKS
Additionally, women looking to become pregnant took an average of two months longer to succeed than those with no traces of gum disease. Studies have shown that women suffering from gum disease also have higher miscarriage rates than their malady-free counterparts.
It is clear that oral hygiene holds greater importance than the general public suspects. With proper care and knowledge, serious health concerns can be avoided by establishing simple, pre-emptive steps.
How healthy are your teeth?
