10 Health Issues Caused by Bad Oral Health

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Oral health goes way beyond the care of the mouth, teeth, and gums. The mouth is the gateway to the body, and so poor oral health can have harmful consequences on the body’s general health.

Bad breath, bleeding gums, toothaches, and several others which are noticed frequently are all as a result of poor oral hygiene. Bacteria from the gums can easily penetrate into the bloodstream and trigger inflammation and infection.

It is pertinent to practice oral hygiene like flossing of your teeth, brushing regularly and routine dental checkups to keep oral issues at bay. Some people may not know this which is why we have a private dentist in Croydon that can educate people and also treat oral health issues.

Bad oral health is detrimental to your body’s entire health. We will show you some of the common and serious health issues which are caused by poor oral health:

1. Dementia

   Has it ever occurred to you that poor oral health can affect the brain? Substances released from gums inflamed by infection can kill brain cells and cause memory loss. When bacteria in the mouth spread to the nerve channels or penetrates the bloodstream, dementia and Alzheimer’s disease(from gingivitis) can surface.

   Have your dental care handled by our dentist in Smile 4 U dental practice to avoid this traumatic health issue.

2. Cardiovascular Disease

   Another effect of bad oral health is exposure to heart disease. The bacteria in an inflamed gum that is responsible for periodontal disease can get into the bloodstream and cause the arteries to build up plaque and harden; a condition known as atherosclerosis and it is very severe. Atherosclerosis leads to blood flow problems and heart blockages. It accelerates the likelihood of having a heart attack. This damage on the arteries and blood vessels can cause hypertension and boost the chances for strokes.

   With an infection of the heart lining, Endocarditis can develop which is another fatal condition. Don’t wait till it’s fatal. Visit your nearest dental clinic in Croydon and see your dentist.

3. Respiratory infections

   The body’s respiratory system can be very well affected by poor oral health. The bacteria from swollen gums and infected teeth can be breathed into the lungs or move into the bloodstream and cause pneumonia, acute bronchitis, COPD, and even respiratory infections.

4. Diabetes

   It is very important for people with diabetes to take proper care of their oral health. We can help you at our private dental practice in Croydon.Diabetes and gum disease have a two-way relationship that makes people with diabetes suffer from periodontitis and loss of control for diabetes. Symptoms become worse with the rise in blood sugar due to gum disease. If you have poor oral health, contact a dentist in Smile 4 U dental practice to lower your chances of developing diabetes.

5. Pregnancy Complication

   Hormonal changes during pregnancy puts a mother at risk of developing an oral infection. It is advised that every pregnant mother do a periodontal exam to identify any risks associated with gum disease. You can do this with our private dentist in Croydon. Pregnant mothers can avoid serious health issues for themselves and their babies with a consultation of a dentist in Smile 4 U dental practice.

6. Infertility

   Gum disease can affect a woman’s health severely that it becomes more difficult to conceive and sustain a healthy pregnancy.

7. Erectile Dysfunction (ED)

   Chronic periodontal disease in men is related to ED. The presence of bacteria in the bloodstream causes inflammation and consequent blockage of blood flow to the genitals; causing more difficult or impossible erections.

8. Cancer

   Smoking and tobacco use are poor oral hygiene practices and can cause throat and oral cancers. Other cancer types have been linked to gum disease.

9. Kidney Disease

   Periodontal disease can trigger chronic kidney disease due to the weak immune system.

10. Rheumatoid Arthritis

    There is a higher chance for people with gum disease to have rheumatoid arthritis four times over the regular person.

Prevention

The best method to prevent severe health issues presented with bad oral health is to make regular visits to your dental hygienist in Croydon. Practice brushing your teeth twice a day, flossing, eating a balanced diet, etc.

Remember that good oral hygiene makes for overall health. Book an appointment with our dentists, and you will be glad you did.