You know that poor dental hygiene causes cavities, but do you know what other problems occur because of bad oral care? Did you know many serious health problems link to how you care for your teeth? Not taking care of your teeth presents many worse complications than you expect, far beyond a painful tooth.

Heart Problems Linked to Poor Dental Hygiene

A woman opens her mouth to check for signs of poor dental hygieneAccording to the Mayo Clinic and ABC News, multiple diseases have ties to poor dental hygiene and those skipped dental appointments. Yes, not visiting your dentist regularly can cost you your life.

Cardiovascular disease is one of the biggest ailments that can occur as a result of poor dental hygiene. Heart disease sometimes starts from oral bacteria that also causes gum inflammation and periodontal disease. These oral bacteria remain when you don’t brush or floss as you should. Some bacteria travels from your mouth through your bloodstream to arteries in your heart.

This journey from your mouth to your heart’s arteries can end your life. The same bacteria that causes plaque buildup on your teeth also causes plaque buildup in your blood vessels. These vessels’ walls thicken and harden as part of atherosclerosis. Soon, the buildup blocks blood flow to the rest of your body, leading to heart attack or stroke.

Another heart condition, endocarditis, occurs from bad dental hygiene as well. The bacteria from your mouth infects and inflames your heart’s inner lining.

Dementia, Respiratory Disease, and Diabetic Problems of Poor Dental Care

Dementia also has ties to poor dental care. Gingivitis bacteria enter your brain through your blood or nerve channels, possibly causing Alzheimer’s disease to develop.

Gum disease has ties to respiratory infections like pneumonia, too. People with diabetes suffer complications from inflamed gum tissues or periodontal disease. These conditions make controlling their blood sugar more difficult, worsening their diabetic condition. Diabetics also experience more periodontal disease because of their blood sugar ailment.

All of these conditions make skipping another tooth brushing a bigger deal than you would think. Brushing and flossing are important parts of each day. No longer are these important activities just for keeping your smile bright. Today we know your whole body relies on good dental care.

Good Dental Health Keeps Your Whole Body Well

Scientists know more than ever that dental health and hygiene play an important role in overall wellness. Keep your smile bright and strong while also promoting whole-body wellness by visiting your dentist every six months. Brush your teeth twice daily and floss every day, too. By taking these small steps for better oral hygiene, you also give yourself an advantage against major health problems.

In Orlando, Florida, Dr. Keith Mahan provides family dental care. This compassionate dental care gives your whole family the advantages of healthy smiles and bodies. Dental services that we offer include:

Give your family members their best chance at good health. Visit the best dentist in Orlando for checkups and dental treatments. Call Smooth Sailing Dentistry now at 407-841-7241 for a consultation.