Taking good care of one's teeth helps prevent the onset of serious dental problems such as periodontal disease. Most people fear losing their teeth, which is why they may opt to see the dentist regularly. Others may believe they can skip regular cleanings and checkups and assume advanced procedures such as gum transplants or other surgical solutions to their woes if things really do get bad. Such persons do not realize that there are other very serious conditions that might arise from poor dental hygiene. Recent research reveals allowing poor dental hygiene to go unchecked and untreated may open doors for even worse and more serious health problems.

Research Connects Dental Problems with Health Ailments

Concerns over serious, adverse health reactions from dental problems are not over-exaggerated. The Journal of Dental Research has revealed "undetected tooth infections" increase heart disease risks by 2.7%. Undetected and untreated issues are not the only conditions to be worried about. Even dental problems that have been taken care of could lead to adverse health risks. Anyone who has had more eight or more fillings may be at risk for elevated mercury levels in the blood. High levels of mercury create  a potentially toxic effect on the internal organs.

Self-Care and Its Limitations

Someone who may feel his/her dental condition needs improvement is sure to take two wise steps: reducing plaque and addressing bleeding gums. High quality over-the-counter mouthwash and expensive toothpastes may cut down on plaque a lot. While it definitely is a good thing to see less plaque, there still may be additional plaque, tartar, and other buildups below the gum line that only a DDS is capable of clearing up.

Similarly, massaging bleeding gums through different brushing approaches could lead to lesser or no more bleeding. This is a good thing. Not so good is making an assumption the gums are "cured". Inflamed gums are not going to become completely cured without a professional cleaning.

Asking about Follow-Up Care

In addition to the cleaning, the dentist is capable of performing a proper medical examination to see if an infection has spread beyond the mouth and are adversely harming the body. An infection spreading to the sinuses and even the heart valves is possible. The average person is not up to date on health risks revealed by current dental research. Consider it advisable to ask a dentist (such as Bradley T Piotrowski DDS MSD LLC) if, based on the current condition of one's dental health, further medical care from a physician or specialist is recommended.