You probably know about how poor oral hygiene can lead to a wide range of mouth-related maladies such as cavities, gingivitis, gum recession, bad breath, and tooth loss. However, you may not realize how accumulations of food debris and preventable oral infections can seriously affect your overall health. Here’s a quick look at how poor oral hygiene habits can lead to serious metabolic issues and other overall health problems.
Gum Disease Can Exacerbate Diabetes
Diabetes is a health condition that prevents the endocrine system from producing sufficient amounts of insulin, a crucial hormone the body uses to regulate blood sugar levels. Treating this condition typically involves the daily administration of injectable insulin to ensure that the body is able to manage its energy levels while avoiding sugary foods and beverages to prevent shock.
The stress of fighting chronic gum disease can strain the endocrine system and leave it more vulnerable to developing conditions like diabetes. To make matters worse, this condition makes it more difficult for the body to fight inflammation and infection, which can lead to a vicious cycle of diabetes and gum disease worsening one another. Practicing excellent oral hygiene habits may help reduce your risk of developing diabetes or help you manage its symptoms.
What Other Health Conditions Can Poor Oral Health Lead To?
Poor oral hygiene is also associated with a host of overall health issues like:
- Oral gangrene: Gangrene is a life-threatening condition that leads to dangerous secondary infections in other areas of the body such as sepsis. An infection of the tooth or gum tissue that is allowed to fester for too long can eventually become gangrenous.
- Pneumonia: The mouth represents a direct pathway into the upper respiratory system, and oral infections are associated with a higher risk of breathing issues like pneumonia.
- Depression, isolation, and other mental health issues: Oral infections can diminish the beauty of a person’s smile, which can make it difficult for them to show their grin proudly so they can engage socially, make friends, and have fun in general.
Don’t let poor oral hygiene affect your overall health. Consulting with your dentist can help you understand how to keep your smile and the rest of your body in great shape.
About the Practice
Athens Dental Associates offers the finest oral health services in town. Led by Drs. Ashley Hill Lindsey, Mark Blankenship, Rachel Clay, and Zack Steinmetz, the staff treats each patient with compassion, courtesy, and exemplary customer service. Areas of expertise include general, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry. To schedule your next checkup, contact the practice on the web or dial (706) 549-1370.