What are the consequences of not having regular teeth cleaning?

Your mouth is a window to your overall health – something  we often overlook when we think about oral health. Most of us consider our mouth  separate  from the rest of the body, but in reality the mouth is the first indicator of disease in any part of our body. A healthy mouth has the potential to keep several diseases at bay. Although we diligently practice teeth cleaning through brushing and flossing,  these daily practices can only clear out superficial debris accumulated on teeth surfaces. The strongly adhered tartar and plaque on hard to reach corners of the teeth remain undisturbed providing a viable environment for germs to accumulate and subsequently cause gum diseases and tooth decay. The best solution to spring clean your teeth and gums would be to opt  for a professional teeth cleaning appointment at your dentist’s office.

If you still keep teeth cleaning at the bottom of your to do list, read on to know what an unclean set of teeth can do to your body. 

1. Gum diseases – The one and only cause for gum diseases (gingivitis / periodontitis) is incomplete removal of food debris  from between the teeth and surrounding gums. Germs digest the food particles and produce a slimy gelatinous film known as plaque which eventually hardens to form a hard, rigid layer called tartar. Both plaque and tartar act as a repository for harmful germs, from where these offending villains can penetrate deeper around the teeth destroying gum tissues. A gum disease is  usually characterised  by bleeding, swelling, reddening and pulling away of gums from the teeth. 

2. Tooth loss – The most devastating consequence of gum disease is tooth loss. Our gums help to stabilize and retain the position of the teeth in the mouth. As mentioned above, when gums get infected the bacteria destroy tissue fibres that attach the gums to the teeth. Thus, the gums pull away from the teeth and lead to loosening of the teeth. Tooth loss has a cascading affect on the health of the oral environment and the body.

3. Tooth decay – Plaque and tartar not only cause gum infection but also are responsible for destroying the tooth structure  causing or cavities. The bacteria residing in the plaque film degrade the food you eat to produce acids. These acids dissolve  tooth layers (enamel and dentine) creating large cavities and ditches. Over a long period of time, germs can penetrate deep into the tooth through these cavities causing serious tooth infection or abscess, which will require root canal treatment or extraction to eliminate the infection.

4. Systemic diseases – In several research studies, chronic gum diseases have been linked to development of cardiac problems, strokes, rheumatoid arthritis, pre-term labour and low infant birth weight. Although strong link between gum diseases and the above ailments have not been established,  maintaining good oral health has to be an important goal.

To get professional teeth cleaning done, contact Green Meadow Dental, 3579B Berlin Turnpike, Newington CT 06111, call: (860)-865-0056. Families from Farmington find the easy drive to Newington well worthwhile because or our expertise and modern facilities, our friendly dental team and the relaxing disposition of Dr. Mukund.We also serve neighboring areas including Portland, Rocky Hill and Meriden.