What Happens To Your Smile When You Do Not Practice Good Oral Hygiene?

Tooth decay and periodontal disease are the two main oral health issues that lead to tooth loss. If you have poor oral health habits, you could be at a higher risk of developing these issues. Dental hygiene involves brushing your teeth twice a day, flossing once daily, and visiting the Dentist in Livermore, CA for regular checkups and cleanings. Brushing your teeth remove food particles and plaque from your teeth, which decreases your risk for decay and gum disease. Flossing helps to clean hard-to-reach areas between your teeth, such as behind the back molars. Regular dental visits allow your Dentist in Livermore, CA, to monitor your oral health and detect any issues early. If you are not keen on following good oral hygiene habits, you are susceptible to having the following problems:

• Cavities

Cavities are one of the most common dental problems. The American Dental Association (ADA) reports that 96% of Americans have had at least one cavity, and 45% have had two or more. Cavities are caused when food particles are left behind on a tooth, allowing the bacteria found in plaque to infect the tooth. Cavities are most common in the molars, but they are also common in the incisors.

• Gingivitis

Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is an infection that affects the gums and the bones that support the teeth. Gum disease is caused by plaque in the mouth. Plaque is a sticky substance that coats the teeth. When you don’t properly clean your teeth to remove the plaque, the plaque coats the teeth and can harden into tartar, which is difficult to remove. Tartar buildup can irritate the gums, causing them to become red and swollen. As time goes on, the gums may begin to pull away from the teeth, which can leave pockets where food and bacteria can collect.

• Bad Breath

Your breath is one of the most prominent signs that you are not maintaining good oral hygiene habits. If you are flossing and brushing your teeth twice a day, you don’t have to worry as much about your bad breath.

• Tooth Loss

Without preventive care, plaque and tartar can build up and weaken your teeth. This can lead to tooth decay and tooth loss. Once your tooth is lost to decay, complications can begin. For example, missing teeth can make it difficult to chew and eat your food properly. This can result in malnutrition, and malnutrition can weaken your immune system.

Besides tooth loss, untreated dental issues like gum disease can also result in the deterioration of your jawbone. As the jawbone weakens, you could end up losing more teeth.

• Dental Implant Failure

Dental implants are designed to last for 20 years or more. However, if you don’t practice good oral hygiene, your implants could fail much sooner. Without proper oral hygiene, plaque may build up and develop bacteria, preventing your implants from healing properly. Plaque can also lead to gum disease, which can progress to periodontitis, a serious gum infection.

Without regular exams, your periodontist will not be able to catch gum disease in its earliest stages. That bacteria can cause bone loss, which can result in your implants becoming loose. To get your dental implants to last as long as possible, be sure to schedule biannual dental exams and cleanings by your Dentist in Livermore, CA.

• Jawbone Loss

Your jawbone supports your cheeks, and your cheeks support your face. When you lose teeth, your jawbone begins to weaken. Since there are no teeth to stimulate the jawbone, it begins to deteriorate, which changes the shape of your face. The loss of teeth can also cause your chin to recede, which changes your facial appearance. When you lose teeth, your remaining teeth can begin to shift into the open spot. Your teeth can also become loose and begin to move because there isn’t enough bone to support them.

Alta Vista Dental provides the best dental services in Livermore, CA, with the expertise of experienced dentists. Call 925-292-1459 and book your appointment to learn more ways to take care of your oral and dental health.