Your teeth are precious, you need them to chew food, form words, and they can even boost your confidence. What may surprise you is that teeth have been evolving for millions of years and they are one of the most impressive structures in the human body.
Teeth are made of the same basic material that you eat daily. Yet, teeth can break these items up without breaking themselves. In fact, serious problems with teeth have only become more pronounced since the arrival of processed foods.
It’s enough to remind you that you should be brushing twice a day, flossing once, and visiting a reputable dentist, such as this dentist Fortitude Valley, at least once a year. The bottom line is simple, you need to look after your teeth.
If you don’t you’re likely to experience tooth decay. This occurs when sugar in the food you eat, reacts with bacteria in your mouth. It creates an acid that attacks the strong enamel on your teeth. Once this has been worn away you’ll have the start of a cavity which can quickly get worse.
You may not be too concerned about this. But, if you don’t get tooth decay looked at quickly, it will lead to an array of other issues.
Tooth Loss
The most obvious consequence of ignoring tooth decay is that it gets worse and eventually the tooth crumbles, leaving you without a tooth. That can be a serious issue, especially if it is one of your front teeth as this is likely to affect your confidence. You will avoid smiling.
Abscesses
Tooth decay that isn’t treated allows bacteria to get inside your teeth. This allows them to infect the tissue inside your tooth and you’re likely to develop a pus-filled abscess. It will cause a swelling in your face, is very painful, and can even cause bacteria to get into your blood.
Bone Loss
If your tooth comes out then the infection will continue, only the bacteria will now attack the bone beneath the root. That’s your jawbone. This can weaken your jaw and cause a variety of serious issues.
In addition, when you lose a tooth the other teeth will gradually move to partially fill the gap. This will actually change the appearance of your face.
Infection
As mentioned, untreated tooth decay allows bacteria into your bloodstream. This can cause a variety of infections including blood poisoning and, there have even been links established to an increased risk of Alzheimer’s.
Cardiovascular Issues
In addition, if you’re not looking after your teeth properly then plaque will build up in them. This allows bacteria to attack your gums, causing receding gums and gum disease. But, the plaque can also enter your bloodstream. It will collect on the lining of your blood vessels, in a similar way to cholesterol.
Over time this build-up of plaque can cause blood vessels to be blocked, potentially causing cardiovascular issues such as a stroke or heart attack.
The bottom line is simple, if you have tooth decay, visit your dentist.