The importance of observing proper oral hygiene cannot be overemphasized. The mouth being the ‘gateway to the body’ does more than provide access to foods that provide nourishment and sustenance.
When you suffer from periodontal problems as a result of your neglect, you also allow disease-causing bacteria to penetrate your system and wreak havoc that can affect your overall health and well-being.
Apart from halitosis (bad breath), unsightly yellow-stained teeth and tooth sensitivity, below are some possible medical issues you will likely to encounter sans proper oral care.
1. Cancer
According to The Oral Cancer Foundation, a person dies from oral cancer every hour of the day. Moreover, researchers discovered that individuals with periodontal problems are more susceptible to kidney, pancreatic and blood-related cancers.
Fortunately, regular dental visits can help with early cancer detection as dental practitioners can see easily determine early signs that might be a cause for concern.
2. Dementia
Contrary to common belief, memory loss and Alzheimer’s disease cannot be attributed to old age alone. While unknown to many, poor dental health is also considered a contributing factor in some neurological disorders.
Studies indicate that infections in the gums can trigger the release of inflammatory substances that can cause neuronal (brain cell) decline.
Also read: Colgate Total Waxed Dental Floss review
3. Respiratory Problems
A study recorded in The Journal of Periodontology explored the possible link between gum disease and prevalent respiratory problems like acute bronchitis and pneumonia.
It is learned that once bacteria that cause periodontal issues find its way in the bloodstream, it can dramatically aggravate the respiratory system. Suffice it to say, cases like this is especially detrimental, especially for people who are already suffering from respiratory issues of any kind.
4. Diabetes
95 percent of adults in the United States who suffer from diabetes are most likely to also suffer from periodontal disease. This correlation has been attributed to the fact that individuals with diabetes are more susceptible to all forms of infections, periodontal issues included.
This link between gum diseases and diabetes is nefarious at the very least. Since blood sugar control is highly challenging in people with gum problems, it can put an individual in even greater risk of developing diabetic complications.
5. Premature Birth
Doctors theorized that some of the medical problems premature babies face can be attributed to infection in the mother’s body. With this in mind, expecting women are often advised to also visit the dentist regularly aside from their obstetrician so any possible infections in the mouth are remedied before they escalate.
In addition to regular dental visits, the use of non-alcohol antimicrobial mouth wash is also recommended, aside of course from routine brushing and flossing.
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6. Cardiovascular diseases
Studies show that individuals with periodontal disease are twice more likely to also develop heart disease and other complications like arterial narrowing. The latter is often a result of plaque and bacteria penetrating the bloodstream.
Most bacteria from the mouth contain clot-promoting proteins clog the arteries, thereby dramatically increasing the risk of heart attacks.
In addition, high levels of mouth bacteria can also block the carotid artery, exposing the individual to an increased risk of having a stroke.
7. Erectile Dysfunction
Compared to men who observe proper oral care, their counterparts who neglect oral hygiene and suffer from gum diseases are found to be seven times more susceptible to suffer from erectile dysfunction.
As bacteria enter the bloodstream, it can cause blood vessels to inflame, blocking flow to the genitals in the process.
Apart from regular flossing and brushing, regular dental visits should be made a top priority. Doing so will help ensure you will have exceptional health to smile about.
I hope this information is helpful for you. Please leave your views about this article in the comments below.
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P.S. This is a guest contribution by Alyssa Furnell. If you want to write for Health Beauty and Food, please read the guest contribution guidelines.
About Alyssa:
Alyssa Furnell is an established writer specializing in beauty and wellness industry. She has been an active advocate of breast cancer awareness as well as participating in several charities in her neighbourhood. In her spare time, she likes to go camping out, play tennis and is into parasailing.
That is a very informative write up.. was not aware of cancer :O