Many people approach their oral health issues as if they were only minor annoyances. They are quick to seek treatment from a physician whenever they feel ill but drag their feet when scheduling an appointment with the family dentist. Treating your oral health that way is a mistake. As you’ll learn in this article, your oral health can significantly impact your overall wellness.
Poor Oral Health Can Lead to Serious Diseases
1 in 4 adults aged 20 to 64 have a cavity. Cavities are fairly common, so it’s not surprising to learn that they affect a sizable segment of the population. The cavity itself is not the reason why you should be concerned. The real reason for worry is the potential cause of the cavity.
People with untreated periodontitis, otherwise known as gum disease, are likely to suffer from cavities if they let the condition persist. That’s a major issue because gum disease has been linked to various life-threatening conditions such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and pneumonia. Gum disease has even been linked to osteoporosis and rheumatoid arthritis.
Why is periodontitis so troublesome? The bacteria responsible for causing periodontitis are to blame. According to WebMD, the bacteria that cause gum disease can enter your bloodstream and adversely affect different parts of your body. More specifically, the inflammation caused by the bacteria is a real threat to your health.
Poor Oral Health Can Adversely Affect Your Appetite
You should also consult a family dentist when dealing with oral health issues because they can affect your eating habits. The pain that accompanies gum disease can be quite intense. Occasionally, it may be intense enough to discourage you from eating.
Poor eating habits can catch up to you quickly. They can deprive you of the necessary nutrients to lead a healthy lifestyle. In the long run, you may develop more severe health issues because of those poor eating habits.
Poor Oral Health Can Cause Self-Esteem Issues
Lastly, bad oral health has a huge impact on a person’s self-esteem. Among the main symptoms of gum disease are bad breath and tooth loss. While experiencing those symptoms, you may have difficulty feeling comfortable around your friends and family. You may end up constantly worrying about your smile or the smell of your breath.
A lack of self-confidence can lead to isolation and depression. No one should have to endure those issues because of poor oral health. Protect your loved ones from those potential problems by scheduling regular appointments with a family dentist.
Oral health is not something you can take lightly. Ignoring your oral health will only lead to long-term health problems. Take action to avoid those potentially life-threatening consequences. Contact us today, and we’ll keep your oral health in good condition!