Health Risks of Poor Oral Hygiene

    WASHINGTON, DC, September 19, 2012 /24-7PressRelease/ -- Did you know that your general health can be impacted by your dental health? A poor at-home oral hygiene routine and failure to visit your general dentist every six months for cleanings and examinations is one of the easiest ways to guarantee oral health issues, and these issues are insidiously dangerous to your entire body.

Oral Health and General Health

Gum disease, tooth decay, missing teeth, and other oral hygiene issues have been linked to:

- Heart disease, heart attack, stroke - Bacteria from periodontal disease has been found in artery-clogging plaque in people with heart disease. In fact, some studies have found that analyzing poor oral hygiene is more effective at predicating heart disease than tracking triglyceride and cholesterol levels

- Cancer - Cancer of the head, neck, esophagus, and lungs has been linked to poor brushing habits, missing teeth, and tooth decay. Two recent studies conducted in the UK found that people with gum disease are 36 percent more likely to develop lung cancer, 49 percent more likely to develop kidney cancer, 54 percent more likely to develop pancreatic cancer, and 30 percent more likely to develop hematologic cancers

- Pregnancy complications - Studies have found that women with periodontal disease are up to seven times more likely to deliver pre-term, low birth-weight babies

- Respiratory issues - Inhaled bacteria from gum disease can lead to respiratory infections

Studies are now being conducted on the connection between poor oral hygiene and memory loss and dementia as well. Bactria that can cause arterial blockage and lead to heart disease may also impact blood and oxygen flow to the brain. Preliminary evidence certainly suggests this is the case, which may mean gum disease is a factor in cognitive disruption.

To learn more about preventing oral and systemic health issues in the areas of Oakton, Fairfax, Reston, Alexandria, and Arlington, Northern Virginia, or Washington, D.C., please visit the website of Softouch Dental Care for more information at www.softouchdentalcare.com.

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