While most people try to maintain strong dental hygiene, they are often unaware of the implications that can arise from this side of neglected personal health.
Plaque buildup, bone loss, tooth decay and inflamed gingival tissue are all symptoms that can materialize from poor dental hygiene and occur over an extended period of time.
“The main aim of dental hygiene is to prevent plaque from turning into calculus,” said dentist Jason Antonio. “Once plaque is left there long enough, it converts to calculus.
“Preventing the formation of calculus also has the function of preventing periodontitis, which is the loss of bone around the teeth.”
A result of poor dental hygiene can lead to gingivitis, which stems from lack of dental upkeep. Gingivitis can happen any time there is the presence of a foreign body within the gingiva, Antonio said.
By not maintaing proper dental hygiene, other risks are possible. If a person already has any other prior medical issues, such as diabetes, heart disease or an artificial joint, bacteria that accumulates in the mouth can affect those areas, said Lisa Mohn, a registered dental hygenist.
“If you have a cut in your mouth, and the bacteria grows within it, it can exaserbate any medical condition that you have,” Mohn said. “It only takes 24 hours to build up an infectious layer of bacteria in the mouth.”
According to Mohn, most people often neglect going to the dentist because of fear or shame of the condition of their current oral health.
By avoiding the dentist, a person’s mouth is prone to growing bacteria, and the results can worsen by the time he or she goes for a check-up.
A simple trick to maintain healthy dental hygiene while at home is making sure to brush teeth for at least two minutes and 30 seconds while reaching the gum lines, Mohn said.
