The human body consists of microorganisms everywhere. These are present on the skin, inside the mouth, intestines, stomach, and more. However, microbes present inside the body are commensal, which means that they do not cause harm to humans. Moreover, some bacteria help with the digestion of food.
When such bacteria get opportunistic, they enter the bloodstream and affect the heart, lungs, liver, and other internal organs. Not having a healthy oral cavity can allow such microbes to enter the bloodstream and cause infections. A Fort Lauderdale dentist guides their patients about maintaining a healthy oral cavity and what has to be done if something has gone wrong.
Diseases that can be caused due to poor oral hygiene.
Poor oral hygiene and gum diseases can lead to several infections and adverse diseases. Therefore, it is essential to maintain good oral hygiene by brushing twice daily, flossing once before sleeping, and gargling after every meal or after consuming dark products that possibly stain the teeth.
- Heart diseases.
Patients with poor oral health, periodontal diseases, or gum infections have been reported to have a higher chance of heart attack when compared to other patients. This is because bacteria present in the infected gums can travel along with the bloodstream to the heart’s arteries and cause their blockage. Bacteria can also lead to plaque build-up in the arteries’ inner walls, leading to the cessation of blood flow. Therefore, such issues can lead to stroke or a heart attack.
- Cancer.
The direct link between cancer and poor oral hygiene has not been reported yet. However, patients with poor oral hygiene or periodontal diseases were reported to have higher chances of pancreatic cancer when compared to those with a healthy oral cavity.
- Diabetes mellitus.
Patients with periodontitis have been shown to have reduced ability to utilize sugar. This may be due to the worsening of the infection and spread through the body, reducing the body’s ability to utilize or process sugars.
- Lung infections.
Patients with weakened immunity and periodontal diseases are highly prone to catching pneumonia or other lung infections. Bacteria and fungi mainly cause lung infections; their invasion into a person’s lungs with a weak immune system may be fatal.
- Congenital disabilities.
Expecting mothers are advised to maintain an excellent oral cavity as poor oral hygiene can lead to congenital disabilities of premature births. However, there is no solid link between poor oral hygiene and congenital disabilities.