Do you brush your teeth frequently? In 2013, The Guardian conducted a UK-based survey which revealed that only 27% of individuals think about their oral health occasionally, not regularly, and this could be to their detriment.
Several studies have demonstrated that bad oral hygiene can result in the build up of bacteria and inflammation in the mouth. This can lead to or amplify other serious health problems such as heart disease, knee arthritis, respiratory illnesses, dementia and diabetes.

Here are some of the ways that oral health can affect your general wellbeing

Heart disease

A variety of research has linked periodontal disease, a chronic bacterial infection of your gums, to heart disease.
When your teeth are not cared for, gums can become inflamed and then bleed. The bacteria within the plaque that forms on your teeth can lead to a chronic inflamed gum line as well as tooth loss. The American Heart Association stated that around 2,600 US individuals die from heart disease every day but a Finish study from 1979 was the first to support a link between heart disease and oral health.

CGI posterior view of teeth taken from inside mouth

The American Academy of Periodontology indicated that people with periodontal disease are twice as likely to develop coronary heart disease.

Pregnancy

Did you know that not caring for your teeth regularly can be harmful for expectant mothers? According to a recent study in the Journal of Periodontology, periodontal disease can result in a low-birth weight and even premature birth.

Preterm birth is the main cause of US neonatal deaths and can cause serious neurological problems for the child such as chronic lung disease, cerebral palsy and vision and hearing impairments.

From 2007-2009, a worrying US survey revealed that 56% of women never visited a dentist during pregnancy.

Dementia

Poor dental health can also allow bacteria to enter the brain and add to symptoms such as confusion and memory loss. A study from the University of Central Lancashire suggested that bad oral hygiene and gum disease could be linked to Alzheimer’s disease and dementia.

By brushing your teeth regularly and taking care of your gums, you can reduce the prevalence of health problems such as heart disease so regular visits are vital. Private dentists are a popular option for those who take their dental hygiene seriously and there are numerous local options available. Visiting a private dentist in Hampshire, for example, can give you access to regular checkups and cleaning to improve your overall health, wellbeing and happiness as well as offering cosmetic dental treatments or teeth whitening to improve your smile even further.