Have you ever decided not to shower all weekend because you weren’t leaving the house? Have you ever been in a rush and decided to skip using soap when washing your hands? If the answer is ‘yes’ you’re certainly not alone, as although everyone knows they shouldn’t, people do cut corners when it comes to personal hygiene on occasion. You might have even done this when it comes to cleaning your teeth, too. Perhaps you were too exhausted to go to the bathroom to clean them before bed, or couldn’t be bothered to spend the extra few minutes flossing.
Although cutting corners occasionally might not do much harm, if this becomes a habit it will lead to bigger problems. Here’s why you shouldn’t cut corners when you’re cleaning your teeth.
Gum Disease
Gingivitis (AKA gum disease) is a common issue when it comes to dental hygiene, but it’s also one that can be easily avoided. It’s caused by a build-up of plaque around your teeth and the gums, and it’s this sticky substance that becomes a breeding ground for bacteria. Most of the bacteria in your mouth are harmless, but sometimes it can be detrimental to your gums. Signs of gum disease include red, swollen, bleeding, and receding gums and if you notice any of these signs you will need to see your dentist for treatment. To reduce the risk of gum disease, brush your teeth twice daily, floss, and use mouthwash.
Periodontal Disease
If gum disease is not treated quickly enough, it can develop into periodontal disease which is a much more serious condition. This can lead to a loss of teeth, and affect your jaw bone if left untreated. The symptoms will be the same as gum disease, but on a more significant scale and you will likely be in pain when trying to eat. Your dentist will be able to give you treatment for this and hopefully be able to return your mouth to a healthy state, but if it’s left too late you might have to deal with lasting damage. If you were to lose any teeth, however, you could always have cosmetic dental surgery to fix this. The Enhanced Dental Studios dental implants are a good example of this kind of surgery that will improve the appearance of your smile after tooth loss.
Increased Risk of Other Health Problems
It’s easy to forget about how your oral hygiene can affect the rest of your body, but if you do develop any serious oral conditions, it could increase the risk of other issues. Gum disease, and periodontal disease, have been linked to other health problems including heart disease, strokes, and diabetes. It has also been connected to rheumatoid arthritis and problems with pregnancy. This is why it’s essential to take care of your teeth and gums, because if you don’t, not only will you have to deal with problems like bad breath and lost teeth, but could be putting yourself at risk with other health problems.
It’s easy to cut corners when you’re tired or in a rush, but make sure you’re not letting this become a bad habit. Avoid cutting corners with your dental hygiene to keep a gorgeous and healthy smile.