Proper dental hygiene is critical. However, most people don’t realize the severe repercussions of poor dental hygiene. The mouth is the source of entry for good and bad bacteria into the body. Unfortunately, the build-up of harmful bacteria in the mouth can lead to many problems, some of which are apparent problems, others which aren’t very obvious.
Here is a closer look at problems that arise from untreated dental issues.
Obvious Problems
When you’re dealing with dental issues, some problems are obvious that will either cause pain or other apparent problems. Here are some obvious issues that arise from untreated dental problems.
Cavities and Dental Caries
One of the most apparent problems from poor dental hygiene is holes in the teeth, known as cavities or caries. Dental caries are minor holes in the tooth, while cavities are larger, more destructive holes in the tooth. Tooth decay begins as tooth caries and develops into cavities over time. These holes can lead to other problems as time passes, and the issues are left untreated.
Missing Teeth
One of the results of tooth decay from caries and cavities is missing teeth. As you leave your teeth untreated, cavities and caries can spread throughout the tooth, causing severe damage. This may lead to the tooth falling out on its own. Or the tooth may crack or break, resulting in a dental professional having to remove the rest of the tooth. Other options for dealing with broken teeth are to put a crown on them or a bridge. A dental professional may also recommend implants if the tooth or teeth must be removed.
Severe Pain
Another problem that arises from poor dental hygiene is severe pain. Decay, infections, and impaction can all cause severe pain. In addition, the pain can occur from overcrowding of teeth in the mouth or bacteria that has seeped into the nerves of the teeth through openings from cavities.
Periodontal Disease
Periodontal disease is one of the worst dental problems that can arise from unchecked dental issues. It is a preventable disease that can cause massive tooth decay and gum damage. As a result, it can destroy the jawbone, cause significant tooth loss, and even result in other severe diseases throughout the body.
Expensive Treatments
One more obvious problem that arises from dental issues isn’t related to health. Instead, it is related to your finances. While dental insurance does cover plenty of dental problems you may experience, it may not cover the entire procedure.
There are also some procedures you will need that aren’t covered by insurance. Some dental procedures, such as periodontal surgery or full mouth dental reconstruction, could cost several thousands of dollars with very little covered by your dental insurance provider.
Not So Obvious Problems
Sometimes untreated tooth problems can lead to health issues that aren’t as obvious. Here are some problems that arise from poor dental hygiene that may not be so obvious.
Problems With Pregnancy
While there could be many risks that arise during pregnancy, one of them is issues associated with dental problems. One of the things that a doctor may recommend during pregnancy is regular dental checkups. If gum disease is present, this could affect the unborn fetus. Issues such as low birth rates and premature delivery can arise from not getting proper dental care.
Respiratory Infections
Have you always seemed to have respiratory infections? Did you know that these infections could result from poor dental hygiene? The bacteria in your mouth can get into your respiratory tract and lead to severe respiratory illnesses.
Cardiovascular Disease
Besides respiratory problems, bad teeth can also lead to heart problems. Studies continue to reveal that poor dental hygiene could cause cardiovascular disease. Although no direct links prove one leads to the other, poor dental hygiene can lead to higher risks for cardiovascular disease. The bacterial infection within the mouth can get into the bloodstream and affect the heart valves.
Sepsis
Another disease that can result from untreated dental problems is sepsis. Unfortunately, this is a severe, life-threatening illness in which bacteria can spread through the body, sending the body into septic shock and causing organ failure. In some cases, it may even result in death.
Visit the Dentist!
This is just a snapshot of the many problems that can arise simply from not taking good care of your teeth. While it may not seem that poor dental hygiene could have such a domino effect on long-term health and finances, it does. Therefore, let’s do something about it starting today! Our experienced staff in Commerce Twp can get you the proper dental treatment to get on the road to better health.
When you call Sedki Dentistry you will discover a dental clinic that offers full-service dentistry addressing the needs of everyone in the family. Our experience includes the latest dental treatments and procedures in children’s dentistry as well as cosmetic dentistry and dental treatments including dental implants and dentures. It all begins with a Free Consultation, call today!