Did you know that the consequences of having rotten teeth can extend far beyond just being embarrassed when smiling? Without proper oral hygiene, issues like gum disease and other health concerns can arise.
It’s not just adults at risk either. All across America, kids and teens are facing a cavity epidemic which could cause not just bad breath but serious issues in the future.
That’s why I’m on a mission to educate people everywhere about the dangers of having rotten teeth. In this article, I’ll provide an overview of what causes cavities and measurable ways to restore your teeth and keep them healthy.
Can bad teeth kill you? The answer may shock you.
Heart Disease
Rotten teeth can be a serious health hazard. Studies have linked poor oral hygiene to an increased risk of developing heart disease. It’s believed that bacteria from dental plaque can enter the bloodstream and cause inflammation in the arteries and other organs, which leads to an increased risk of heart disease or stroke.
Studies have also found that people with periodontal (gum) disease are up to seven times more likely to suffer from heart disease than people without gum disease. In addition, if you don’t take care of your teeth, gums, and mouth properly by visiting a brisbane dentist you could suffer from infection, abscesses, and other oral health problems that put extra strain on your immune system. This could weaken it over time and make it more vulnerable to infection-causing illnesses.
The takeaway? Get regular dental checkups! Cleaning your teeth is just one of the many ways you can help reduce your risk of suffering from rotten teeth as well as multiple other types of diseases.
Alzheimer’s Disease
Rotten teeth can increase your risk of developing Alzheimer’s Disease. This chronic, progressive brain disorder destroys memory and other important mental functions. Studies have found that poor oral hygiene might be associated with an increased risk for Alzheimer’s Disease.
With Alzheimer’s Disease, an accumulation of a substance called beta-amyloid in the brain is responsible for some of the damage. The bacteria from rotten teeth can travel throughout the body and cause inflammation, which may alter the level of beta-amyloid in the brain.
It’s not clear if rotten teeth cause Alzheimer’s Disease or only increases its risk, but it is becoming increasingly apparent that taking good care of your oral health is essential to overall well-being. Regular brushing and flossing, coupled with regular dental checkups, could help reduce your risk for such serious conditions.
Diabetes
If you have rotten teeth, one of the most overlooked dangers is worsening your diabetes. Yes, that’s right! Diabetes can be affected by oral health complications such as cavities and infections.
Diabetes causes a rise in blood glucose levels which can contribute to the decay of tooth enamel in addition to an increased risk for gum disease and infection. Insulin resistance—which is characteristic of Type 2 diabetes—can further inhibit tooth regeneration and repair due to decreased blood flow to the mouth.
Poor oral health can contribute to higher levels of glucose in diabetics, making it even more difficult for them to manage their diabetes. It’s important for diabetic patients with rotten teeth to take immediate action either by visiting their dentist regularly or seeking professional dental cleaning services if needed. Regular check-ups and taking proper care of their teeth are ways diabetics can lower the risk of developing severe health complications relating to poor oral hygiene.
Cancer
Not only can rotten teeth contribute to other health issues, but in rare cases, it can lead to cancer. The American Cancer Society has linked poor oral hygiene to squamous cell carcinoma of the larynx (throat). People with very poor oral hygiene are three times more likely than those without rotten teeth to develop this type of cancer.
Additionally, the American Dental Association (ADA) says that individuals with periodontal disease are at an increased risk for developing other types of cancer such as pancreatic and kidney cancers. Therefore, if you notice signs of dental decay or periodontal disease, it is important to take action immediately and seek medical attention.
By brushing and flossing regularly and seeing your dentist as recommended, you can avoid many of the health problems associated with rotten teeth including mouth infections and even cancer. Taking care of your dental health is not only important for preventing cavities and tooth pain but for your overall health too.
Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)
Rotten teeth can have a serious impact on your health and even lead to the development of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Studies have shown that RA is more likely to occur in people who suffer from poor oral health, such as those with repeated cavities or advanced periodontal disease.
It’s thought that the bacteria present in rotten teeth may trigger a response in the body’s immune system which leads to inflammation causing RA symptoms. The bacteria that cause rot is also believed to damage our joints and make us far more susceptible to infection. In some cases, dental infections may spread into the bloodstream, resulting in long-term medical conditions like sepsis or endocarditis.
To reduce your risk of developing conditions such as RA due to rotten teeth, it’s important to practice good oral hygiene and visit your dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings. It’s also important to get any cavities filled or crowns replaced – as soon as possible! Early intervention can help stop any further infection and keep your risk of developing diseases like arthritis low.
Healthy Mouth, Healthy Body
When you have rotten teeth, it can be more than just an embarrassing issue. Research has established that much of overall health is connected to the condition of the mouth and teeth. Keeping your teeth clean and healthy impacts much more than simply having a good smile.
It’s been proven that poor oral hygiene often leads to heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. Bacteria from diseased gums can enter the bloodstream via cuts, triggering havoc in other parts of the body such as in major organs. Conditions like endocarditis can occur when infections from inside your mouth travel through your bloodstream.
To maintain a healthy mouth and prevent disease, you ought to brush twice daily for two minutes each time with fluoride toothpaste and floss regularly with dental tape or dental floss to help remove plaque build-up between teeth. A balanced diet low in sugar will help keep bacteria at bay while regular visits to a dentist are important for ongoing maintenance. Taking these steps will help reduce the risk of serious illnesses associated with rotten teeth and ensure proper oral care throughout life! If you don’t have a dentist yet, you can visit this dependable dentist in Tampa for your oral care needs.
