There’s no doubt in this that your oral health is more important than you might think. Oral Health is not only about having a bright, white smile; it’s about maintaining the overall health and well-being of your body. It is the oral hygiene that maintains the cleanliness and health of your mouth.
Regular brushing, flossing, and routine dental check-ups are crucial components of maintaining sound oral hygiene.
Ignoring oral hygiene can have serious consequences, leading to severe mouth diseases that can affect your quality of life and even your general health.
Dentist in Berwick throws light on the consequences of ignoring oral hygiene in this blog post outlined below.
Consequences Of Neglecting Oral Hygiene
Tooth Decay (Cavities)
One of the most common consequences of neglecting oral hygiene is tooth decay. Not brushing and flossing regularly can lead to the accumulation of food particles and bacteria on your teeth which leads to plaque formation.
Plaque produces acids that erode tooth enamel, eventually causing cavities. These cavities can lead to more extensive dental issues, such as tooth infections and abscesses.
Gum Disease
Ignoring oral hygiene can also result in gum disease, which ranges from mild gingivitis to severe periodontitis. Gum disease starts as inflammation of the gums due to the accumulation of plaque and tartar.
Besides this, it can also lead to tooth loss and may even affect your overall health, as it has been linked to conditions like heart disease and diabetes.
Halitosis (Bad Breath)
Poor oral hygiene often leads to bad breath. Chronic bad breath, or halitosis, can be socially embarrassing and may indicate underlying dental problems that require attention.
Tooth Sensitivity
Neglecting oral hygiene can also lead to tooth sensitivity. When your enamel is eroded due to plaque and acids, it can expose the sensitive dentin underneath, causing discomfort when you eat or drink hot, cold, sweet, or acidic substances.
Oral Cancer
The next drawback of ignoring oral hygiene is that it can increase your risk of oral cancer. You can decrease the risk of oral cancer by getting regular dental check-ups from the dentist in Berwick and detecting oral cancer at the earliest.
Prevention And Maintenance
The key to preventing severe mouth diseases starts with good oral hygiene practices. Let’s take note of some essential steps to follow to maintain your oral hygiene.
Brush your teeth: Make sure to brush for two minutes twice a day, using a soft-bristle toothbrush and proper technique.
Floss daily: The food particles often get stuck within the teeth while eating which if not treated can lead to gum disease. Consequently, dentists always recommend flossing daily to remove plaque and food particles from in between your teeth.
Regular dental check-ups: Visiting the dentist in Berwick for regular check-ups and cleaning is a must. These appointments can catch dental issues early and provide professional cleanings to remove plaque and tartar.
Eat a balanced diet: Consuming a well-balanced diet consisting of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help support good oral health. Try not to consume sugary, acidic foods and beverages as these lead to tooth decay.
Quit smoking: One sure-shot way to prevent yourself from mouth diseases is to quit smoking or using tobacco products.
Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water helps maintain saliva production, which is essential for washing away food particles and bacteria in your mouth.
Conclusion
Neglecting oral hygiene can lead to severe mouth diseases that can affect your overall health and well-being. Consequently, make sure to follow a consistent oral hygiene routine to prevent these issues and maintain a healthy mouth. Remember, a beautiful smile is just one of the many benefits of good oral hygiene; the real reward is a lifetime of oral health and a healthier you. Consult your trusted dentist in Berwick now to ensure your oral health.