• April 19, 2024

Nine out of 10 Mexicans have tooth decay, either in one or several teeth, according to information from the Mexican Dental Association (ADM). In addition, bad oral hygiene is the main cause of 60% of the population suffering from bad breath. However, are its consequences limited to the aesthetic?

The mouth is full of bacteria, which have the function of turning food into acids. Although these, when combined with food waste, form what we call bacterial plaque, which if not eliminated produces decay, infections and diseases such as gingivitis (inflammation and bleeding gums) and periodontitis (affects the support of the teeth).

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Your whole body is in danger!

Bad oral hygiene can cause you to lose your beautiful smile, but also your life. GetQoralHealth presents you with three "non-dental" diseases produced by bad oral hygiene:

1. Beware of your pancreas! According to a study published by the Harvard School of Public Health, Men who have a history of gum disease may have an increased risk of developing pancreatic cancer. Researchers speculate that chronic infection of the gums causes inflammation throughout the body, which could promote the growth of cancer.

2. Dementia A British investigation carried out by the University of Central Lancashire , and published by PloS One, indicates that maintaining good oral hygiene can prevent dementia; since it diminishes the presence of a bacterium that causes gingival pathologies: porphyromonas gingivalis. Which destroys neurons and causes symptoms such as memory loss and confusion, typical of dementia and Alzheimer's.

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3. Heart attack! Realized by the teacher Howard Jenkinson, This study suggests that the bacteria that cause plaque formation in the gums can "leak" from the mouth into the bloodstream and increase the risk of a heart attack.

To maintain good oral hygiene it is necessary to wash the teeth after each food, as well as before going to bed. Remember, your health is in your hands, take care of it!