Consequences of poor oral hygiene on dental and general health

Young woman brushing her teeth

Oral health is a fundamental and often neglected aspect of our overall health. Poor oral hygiene can lead to a multitude of problems, from simple cavities to more serious conditions such as periodontal disease. This article explores in detail the potential consequences of poor oral hygiene on your health, focusing on prevention and the solutions offered by Helvident clinics and dental centers in French-speaking Switzerland.

What is poor dental hygiene?

It's a lack of regular, effective care to keep the mouth and teeth clean. This includes:

  • Insufficient brushing: brushing too quickly, less than twice a day, or with an inadequate technique, does not effectively remove plaque.
  • Neglect of dental floss : This accessory is essential for cleaning interdental spaces inaccessible to the toothbrush. Its absence encourages plaque build-up and bacterial growth between teeth.
  • Lack of regular visits to the dentist : regular dental check-ups enable problems to be detected early and treated before they become serious.
  • Poor power supply : a diet rich in sugars and acids encourages the proliferation of cavity-causing bacteria.
  • Smoking : smoking is an increased risk factor for gum infections and oral cancer.

Impact of poor hygiene on oral health

  • Caries : bacterial plaque produces acids that attack tooth enamel, forming cavities called cavities. Untreated cavities can progress to the pulp, causing intense pain and necessitating more complex treatments such as root canal therapy.
  • Gingivitis : this inflammation of the gums is the first stage of periodontal disease. Gums become red, swollen and sensitive, and bleed easily when brushed. Untreated gingivitis can progress to periodontal infection.
  • Periodontitis : is a serious infection that affects the tissues that support the teeth, particularly the alveolar bone. It can lead to progressive destruction of these tissues, loosening of the teeth and, ultimately, tooth loss. Periodontitis is a major cause of tooth loss in adults.
  • Bad breath (halitosis) : Bad breath is often a sign of poor hygiene. Bacteria in the mouth produce volatile sulfur compounds responsible for the unpleasant odor.
  • Dental abscesses : This bacterial infection forms at the root of a tooth. Abscesses can cause intense pain and swelling, and require emergency treatment.

Consequences for general health 

Several studies have shown a link between poor tooth care and certain systemic diseases:

  • Cardiovascular diseases: the chronic inflammation associated with periodontal disease can increase the risk of cardiovascular disease.
  • Diabetes: Diabetes increases the risk of periodontal disease, and conversely, periodontal disease can make glycemic control more difficult.
  • Pregnancy complications: periodontal disease can increase the risk of premature delivery and low birth weight. Pregnant women should maintain good oral hygiene and be monitored by a dentist.
  • Pneumonia: oral bacteria can be inhaled into the lungs, causing respiratory infections, particularly in the elderly.

Prevention and solutions for dental health

Brush your teeth twice a day for two minutes with a toothbrush. fluoride toothpaste. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and adopt a proper brushing technique. This is the basis of good hygiene.

In addition, dentists recommend daily use of dental floss and/or brushes to clean interdental spaces.

As far as diet is concerned, limit your intake of sugars, acidic foods and soft drinks. Smoking is also a major risk factor for developing gum disease.

Finally, the fundamental pillar of prevention lies in regular visits to the dentist: at least once a year for check-ups and scaling.

Helvident: your partner for optimum oral health

Helvident's dental clinics in Lausanne, Fribourg and Aigle offer you a comprehensive range of dental treatments to maintain your oral health. Our experienced dentists and team ofdental hygienists will support you in the prevention and treatment of oral ailments, using state-of-the-art technology. Don't hesitate to Contact us to book an appointment and benefit from quality dental care.

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