What problems could Poor Oral Health Cause?
Amidst the busy life and busy schedules oral health often takes a backseat. We may not realize the impact of neglecting the teeth, not adhering to a good oral health regime as they could invite a cascade of problems. It could extend far beyond a toothache, like the bacteria in your mouth can slowly creep into your body leading to many problems. Poor oral health isn’t just about cavities and bad breath, but a silent menace that can create havoc on our overall well-being.
We shall delve into some of these problems that poor oral health can cause. This could be your wake-up call to prioritize oral hygiene.
Risk of Cardiovascular Disease
You would be alarmed to know that there exists a connection between poor dental hygiene that leads to gum disease, and cardiovascular issues. The Harvard Health Publishing states that the bacteria causing gum disease can enter the bloodstream, causing inflammation in blood vessels. Evidence also supports that people who do not have a proper dental hygiene regime in place may face higher risks of cardiovascular problems like heart attacks and strokes.
It’s never too late to adopt good oral hygiene practices, such as brushing twice a day at least for 2 minutes and flossing, along with professional dental cleanings, that can aid in preventing gum disease.
People with diabetes are more prone to infections and are particularly susceptible to periodontal (gum) disease. Periodontal disease can complicate the control of blood sugar levels, putting patients at risk of diabetes-related complications. Furthermore, gum disease can contribute to higher blood sugar levels, increasing the risk of developing diabetes in individuals with poor oral health.
Smoking or chewing tobacco is popularly known to harm oral health, causing issues like oral and throat cancers. Yet, there are more risks linked to gum disease. Poor oral health also increases the chances of developing pancreatic cancer, kidney cancer, and blood cancers.
By now you’re aware that the Bacteria that can cause gum disease can enter the bloodstream and lead to cardiovascular issues. But do you know that poor oral hygiene can also lead to dementia? Yes. The bacteria can travel through the bloodstream to the brain, potentially contributing to dementia. A study in 2020 further established a connection between gum disease and Alzheimer’s disease.
Believe it or not, your lungs and oral health are intertwined. Bacteria in the mouth can find its way into the respiratory system, potentially causing infections, bronchitis, pneumonia, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
As we uncover the hidden dangers of poor oral health, it becomes evident that neglecting our mouths can have far-reaching consequences on our overall health. The oral-systemic connection is a reminder that our bodies operate as interconnected systems, and one single problem can lead to various health issues. It’s never too late to set a regime for your oral health, for behind a beautiful smile lies a healthy routine.
Authored By DR. SUDHAKAR REDDY – Implantologist, Bangalore
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