5 Reasons Why Tooth Decay Can Be Dangerous To Your Health

Why You Should Prevent & Treat Tooth Decay As Soon As Possible

You probably know that tooth decay can seriously damage your teeth, causing bad breath, tooth pain, and even significant damage to your jawbone, but you may not realize that tooth decay does more than just damage your mouth. The infections from tooth decay can actually spread throughout your body, weakening your immune system and even increasing the risk of heart disease. To maintain optimal health for your whole body, good oral hygiene habits and regular visits with your Washington Heights dental clinic are crucial in order to prevent and treat tooth decay before it becomes dangerous to your overall health.

How Can Tooth Decay Damage My Body?

Tooth decay is the result of acids that are created by bacteria in the mouth. When these pesky microorganisms coat your teeth with a sticky firm known as plaque, the acids slowly begin to eat away at the layers of your teeth. Over time, the acids make their way deeper into your teeth, causing cavities and tooth decay. When the bacteria get into your gums, they cause gum disease, another painful and unsightly infection. Check out these five reasons why tooth decay can be harmful to your overall health:

Tooth Decay Weakens Your Immune System

Poor oral hygiene habits and overconsumption of sugary foods or beverages can lead to bacteria build up in the mouth and tooth decay. When these germs make their way into the bloodstream through the capillaries in your gums and cheeks, they travel through the entire body. This causes your immune system to become weakened, can contribute to fatigue, and increase your chances of getting sick.

Tooth Decay Promotes a Higher Risk Of Heart Disease

Many medical studies have linked the bacteria that cause periodontal disease and tooth decay directly to an increased risk of heart disease. Both gum disease and heart disease are caused by the buildup of plaque in the body. When the plaque inside your arteries builds up, it can disrupt or block blood flow, leading to heart attacks and other potentially fatal heart conditions. Routine cleanings in Washington Heights dentist will not only improve the appearance of your smile but can also reduce your risk of serious heart diseases.

Tooth Decay Can Exacerbate Existing Health Conditions

Serious health conditions such as diabetes, osteoporosis, and HIV/AIDS are known to be worsened by unhealthy levels of bacteria in the mouth. When the bacteria invade the mouth, the immune system is weakened, which will worsen many chronic health conditions. Improving oral hygiene with your Washington Heights dentist can reduce the risk of tooth decay and gum disease, exacerbating other existing health conditions.

Tooth Decay Increases Your Negative Self Image

Most people don’t like the way that tooth decay or gum disease changes the way they look. A negative feeling about your teeth can lead to a reluctance to smile or fears about being perceived negatively based on the appearance of their teeth. This fear is well-founded, since a person’s smile is often one of the first things that other notice in social interactions. A negative self image or concerns about appearance can also cause other significant social problems, such as difficulty getting a job or maintaining relationships, and may even promote mental health conditions such as depression or anxiety.

Tooth Decay Can Lead To Serious Infections

In most cases, tooth decay begins as a small cavity that develops on a single tooth. If the decay is left untreated, it can reach the center of the tooth which holds nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue. This area is called the pulp chamber. Normally, the pulp chamber is sealed off from the rest of the tooth, but it can be opened by tooth decay or traumatic damage to the mouth.

When bacteria enters the pulp chamber, the infection causes excruciating pain and can spread throughout the body via the bloodstream. If the infection gets into the brain, it can be life-threatening. Avoid tooth decay with regular teeth cleanings at your Washington Heights dental office.

Let Us Treat Your Tooth Decay

If you are suffering from tooth decay, schedule your appointment with the friendly dentists at Esthetix Dental Spa. With extensive experience in a wide variety of dental procedures, our team is ready to make your appointment as comfortable as possible. We have helped thousands of patients just like you obtain oral health and a confident smile. Call our office today to schedule your appointment!