Sophie Okolo, MPH

Did you know that there are about five diseases that you can get from poor oral hygiene? If you don’t brush and floss your teeth regularly, then you are at risk of developing any of these conditions. This blog will discuss each of these diseases in detail. So, if you want to learn more about the worst diseases that can be caused by poor oral hygiene, then keep reading!

1) Gingivitis:

Gingivitis is the early stage of gum disease. It is caused by plaque buildup on your teeth. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that constantly forms on your teeth. If plaque is not removed, it can harden and turn into tartar. 

Gingivitis is characterized by red, swollen, and bleeding gums. If you have gingivitis, your gums may be sore or painful when you brush your teeth. You may also notice that your gums bleed easily. If you have any of these symptoms, then you should get in touch with a Laser Dentistry to get your teeth professionally cleaned. Gingivitis is reversible with proper oral hygiene. However, if it is left untreated, it can lead to periodontitis.

2) Periodontitis:

Periodontitis is the more advanced stage of gum disease. It occurs when the plaque and tartar beneath your gum line begin to break down the bone and connective tissue that support your teeth. As the bone and tissues are destroyed, your teeth can become loose and eventually fall out. In addition, periodontitis is a serious infection that can lead to other health problems, such as heart disease and stroke.

3) Tooth Decay:

Tooth decay is caused by plaque buildup on your teeth. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that constantly forms on your teeth. If plaque is not removed, it can harden and turn into tartar. Tooth decay occurs when the bacteria in plaque begin to eat away at the enamel on your teeth. Enamel is the hard outer layer of your teeth. Once tooth decay begins, it can cause cavities (holes) to form in your teeth.

4) Oral Cancer:

Oral cancer is a type of cancer that affects the tissues in your mouth. It can occur on your lips, tongue, gums, or anywhere else in your mouth. Oral cancer is most commonly caused by tobacco use (smoking or chewing tobacco). However, it can also be caused by excessive alcohol use, sun exposure, and HPV infection. Oral cancer can be deadly if it is not caught early and treated.

5) Thrush:

Thrush is a fungal infection that affects the mucous membranes in your mouth. It is most common in infants and young children but can also occur in adults. Thrush is caused by a fungus called Candida albicans. This fungus is present in small numbers in the mouth, but it can overgrow and cause an infection if your immune system is weakened or you are taking certain medications (such as antibiotics). Thrush can also occur if you have diabetes or dentures that do not fit well.

These are just a few of the diseases that can be caused by poor oral hygiene. So, be sure to brush and floss your teeth regularly to prevent these conditions from occurring. And if you think you may have one of these diseases, be sure to see a dentist immediately!