4 Serious health problems if oral hygiene is not maintained

Oral health is like a window to overall body health. Anything that starts from the mouth can enter the body, including bacteria. Bacteria that accumulate due to poor oral hygiene can have a serious impact on health conditions, you know.

To be clearer, consider what are the impacts when we are lazy to clean the oral cavity area in the following explanation.

The result when lazy to clean the oral cavity

Everything that goes into the mouth, of course, will affect the organs in the body. Food and drinks are processed first in the mouth and then move to the esophagus and digestive system. However, bacteria can live in the area of ​​the oral cavity and between the teeth.

According to Mayo Clinic , the bacteria in the mouth are generally harmless. However, in certain cases it can affect the respiratory organs, heart, and cause serious conditions. This can happen when we are lazy to maintain healthy teeth and mouth.

Following are health problems due to poor oral hygiene.

1. Endocarditis

Endocarditis is an infection of the heart valve or endocardium. This condition is caused by the spread of bacteria or germs originating from parts of the body (outside the heart) into the bloodstream and sticking to the inner walls of the heart organ.

If this condition is not treated immediately, the bacteria can damage the work of the heart so that in the worst case it can cause loss of life. Of course, this can be prevented early by paying attention to the cleanliness of the oral cavity and teeth.

2. Cardiovascular disorders

In addition, poor oral hygiene can increase cardiovascular risk. Cardiovascular disease is a health problem related to the blood vessels and heart.

The bacteria that enter can cause inflammation and infection in certain areas. In some cases, bacteria from the mouth can cause clogged arteries or heart problems, including endocarditis and stroke.

3. An unexpected event during delivery

During pregnancy, mothers need to maintain oral and dental hygiene in order to support the health of themselves and the little one in the womb. One of the oral problems that are often experienced by pregnant women is gingivitis or gingivitis. Inflammation of the gums is caused by changes in pregnancy hormones and buildup of plaque on the teeth.

The United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said that gingivitis will have an impact on the birth of your little one, ranging from premature babies to babies born under normal weight. Therefore, pregnant women need to take care of the oral cavity area during pregnancy.

4. Pneumonia and lung problems

Pneumonia is an inflammation of the lungs caused by a bacterial infection. Lungs that are infected can cause symptoms of fever, cough with phlegm to fester, and difficulty breathing.

This happens because bacteria in the mouth that collect and enter the respiratory system can affect the function of these organs.

In addition to pneumonia, poor oral health can lead to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and acute bronchitis. However, it should be noted that poor oral health is only one risk factor that supports some developing diseases.

Tips for maintaining healthy teeth and oral cavity

The body has a mechanism for preventing bacterial development and infection, such as saliva, which rinses the oral cavity from bacteria, or the body's immunity which works to eradicate germs. Even so, oral health still needs to be maintained in a more optimal manner.

Here are tips for maintaining oral hygiene.

1. Don't skip the routine of brushing your teeth

Brushing teeth has become a mandatory rule to maintain oral hygiene and prevent plaque buildup. Always brush your teeth morning and night by applying the correct brushing method.

Don't forget to use fluoridated toothpaste when brushing your teeth. This content helps protect tooth enamel and prevents cavities.

No need to be too hard when brushing your teeth, just brush for two minutes on the entire surface of your teeth. When brushing the front teeth, brush vertically from the gums towards the teeth (from top to bottom or from bottom to top).

2. Gargle with

Gargle with mouthwash break the bacteria development space thereby preventing the risk of other diseases that may develop. It can be said that oral and dental health can affect the overall health of the body. Good oral and dental health is able to optimize the body's immunity against various risks of disease. Especially in a pandemic like this time.

Maintaining oral health with a toothbrush is not enough, because it only covers about 25 percent of the oral cavity area. Therefore, the oral cavity needs optimal protection, namely by using an antiseptic mouthwash (antiseptic mouthwash).

Research from Iranian Journal of Public Health said, mouthwash effectively reduces the number of bacteria and prevents the development of bacteria in the mouth. Not apart from these studies, antiseptic mouthwash (antiseptic mouthwash) can help reduce plaque, tartar, keep gums healthier, prevent cavities, and make your breath fresher.

So that you can feel the effective benefits, choose an antiseptic mouthwash with four natural ingredients essential oils . You can use antiseptic mouthwash by gargling twice a day after brushing your teeth.

You can also remind your family how important it is to maintain oral health with regular use antiseptic mouthwash .

3. Clean your teeth with

Don't forget, clean between your teeth using dental floss . This step helps prevent gingivitis and bad breath.

You just need to use 30-45 cm dental floss . Then, slip the floss between the teeth and move vertically for 8-10 times on each tooth. That way, the food residue that has slipped between the teeth can be helped out.

4. Reduce high sugar intake

We all know that oral and dental problems are easily triggered by foods that are high in sugar. So, pay attention to the selection of food. It is better to consume healthy foods with balanced nutrition so that the body gets adequate nutrition.

Try to reduce foods or drinks high in sugar to prevent the risk of cavities. Do this in an effort to maintain oral and dental hygiene.

5. Don't forget to wash your hands with soap

Washing your hands is also a basic way to keep your teeth and mouth clean, you know. Washing your hands can flush out any bacteria that may enter your mouth while eating or snacking.

Always remember to wash your hands for 20 seconds using soap and running water. Wash your hands before eating, before touching food, after using the toilet, or after traveling from outside.

In the era of adapting to new habits (IMR), maintaining oral health is becoming increasingly important. Not only limited access to dentists, but also because the mouth is a way for bacteria to enter the body and may pose a risk of serious health problems. Therefore, let's pay attention to the cleanliness of our mouths and teeth in the midst of this pandemic.