5 Ways Poor Oral Hygiene Can Impact Your Life
Nearly 1 in 5 U.S. adults is affected by poor oral hygiene, and suburban communities like Newtown see similar patterns. Gum disease, untreated cavities, and tooth loss have become the major causes of poor health and confidence. In this blog, we have discussed five ways in which poor dental habits can affect your daily life, factors contributing to them, and how you can cure and prevent them.
Higher Risk of Tooth Decay and Pain
A common issue that may arise due to poor oral hygiene is tooth decay or cavities. About 21% of American adults suffer from untreated cavities, causing persistent toothaches, sensitivity, and disrupting daily life.
Factors contributing to tooth decay include bacteria that convert carbohydrates into acids that can dissolve tooth enamel.
Risk- Cavities are not contagious, but bacteria can transfer from person to person. Also, it gives you bad breath.
Gum Disease
Ignoring gum disease is one of the leading causes of dental plaque buildup. Caused by poor oral hygiene, gum disease affects nearly 50% of U.S. adults.
Factors contributing to gum disease include smoking, poor oral hygiene, chronic diseases, autoimmune diseases, hormonal changes, stress, genetics, diabetes, and heart disease.
Risk- Gum disease can lead to tooth loss and severe dental conditions if not treated soon. However, regular dental examinations, using advanced technology, can help halt progression before it becomes serious.
Tooth Loss Can Impact Confidence
Missing teeth not only impact your eating comfort but also your confidence in public, leading to social anxiety.
Factors contributing to tooth loss, such as dental disorders like trauma, can affect self-esteem. However, orthodontic treatment can give back your smile and confidence.
Risk- Tooth loss has a solution in modern times, which makes it less of a risk. Local solutions like implants or implant-supported dentures can restore function and facial structure, improving health and confidence.
Increased Expenses Over Time
Factors contributing to increased expenses are a lack of preventative care that leads to serious treatments, such as gum disease treatments and restorative dentistry. Dental treatment fees vary based on individual needs and location.
Risk- Lowest reimbursement rate or low income makes complex dental procedures inaccessible and unaffordable. Transparent pricing and preventive care from trusted dentists can help reduce unexpected expenses.
Risk of Severe Conditions
Dental anxiety affects 50-80% of adults, with 15% avoiding dental care entirely.
Factors contributing to the development of severe conditions are excessive delay in treatment, which may lead to severe dental and health conditions.
Risk- Plaque buildup can cause cavities, gingivitis, or severe gum disease. Research also links oral health to chronic diseases like Alzheimer’s, diabetes, and even cancer.
Conclusion
Poor oral hygiene can significantly affect health, appearance, and quality of life. Some tips to maintain healthy oral habits include:
- Brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste
- Flossing daily
- Replace toothbrushes every 3 months
- Schedule professional cleanings at least twice a year
- Maintain personalized preventive care
Early action saves time, money, and stress, ensuring a healthy smile for years to come. Dr. Arti Kaul, a female dentist, specializes in calming nervous patients and giving comfortable care. Call now and book a free consultation!
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