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Tooth decay is said to be the most common disease across the globe. Dental hygiene is a preventive practice against dental problems such as tooth cavities, gingivitis, periodontitis, and bad breath by keeping the teeth and mouth clean. More than 80 percent of all dental cavities are found inside fissures and pits on the chewing surfaces. Brushing alone cannot reach these areas where food particles are trapped after eating. These are also the areas that fluoride or saliva cannot access to be able to neutralize acid and re-mineralize teeth. Tartar and dental plaque are eliminated through teeth cleaning to prevent cavities and gum disease that leads to tooth loss, as well as gingivitis. When Oral Care is Poor When dental hygiene is poor or neglected and there is no proper care of gums and teeth, other health problems result. When the teeth and mouth are not in good health, the chemical and physical processes that food should undergo in the mouth during eating are not properly completed. This results in digestion problems such as irritable bowel syndrome and intestinal failure. Pain occurs when gums are swollen and sore due to infection and inflammation brought about by poor oral care. Aside from pain in the mouth and face, gum disease also results in tooth loss. Infections in the mouth due to poor oral hygiene can also affect other organs of the body. One example is inflammation that occurs in the heart and its valves due to bacterial endocarditis. Oral Care and Overall Health Dental health or the health of teeth, mouth, and gums affects a person’s overall health. According to studies, bacteria in the mouth and the inflammation connected to periodontitis which is a severe case of gum disease may play a role in some diseases. Good oral care such as daily flossing and brushing can help regulate the bacteria in the mouth. When oral hygiene is poor, bacteria can reach unmanageable levels that can only be detrimental to the health of teeth and gums. Oral health can be achieved through proper oral hygiene that includes daily flossing, twice daily brushing of the teeth, toothbrush replacement every three or four months, regular check-up by the dentist, and eating a healthy diet. Oral Care and Diseases There are health conditions and diseases that are linked to poor dental health. Bacteria in the mouth can pass through the bloodstream and lodge in the damaged areas in the heart leading to infection of the heart’s inner lining, resulting in endocarditis.Other cardiovascular diseases from oral bacteria can ensue such as clogged arteries, heart disease, and stroke. Periodontitis or severe gum disease is linked to low birth weight and premature birth. Diabetes weakens the body’s fight against infection. Gums are at risk when this happens that is why gum disease is more severe and common among diabetics. In turn, gum disease makes it difficult to control a diabetic’s blood sugar levels. Author Bio: Colgate Palmolive is world’s No. 1 oral care, personal care and household care brand offering its services and products in around 35 countries. In this article the author talks about how to maintain good dental health and what role dental hygiene plays in our day to day life.
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