Ignoring basic oral hygiene on a daily basis is a risky habit that can lead to not only the very real and unpleasant reality of tooth loss and gum disease, but also to bad consequences for your entire health.

Researchers have discovered links between poor dental hygiene and heart and lung health, for example. Patients with gum disease or poor hygiene in general are more likely to develop cardiovascular disease and endocarditis. The actual explanation of this association is still unknown; results aren’t definite as to one causes the other or whether the link is coincidental, but experts believe bacteria and germs from an infected or inflamed mouth enter the bloodstream and eventually harden the arteries.

Plaque forms and builds up as a result, causing severe blockages and raising the risk of heart attack and stroke. Endocarditis, an infection of the inner lining of the heart, is also connected to bacteria in the mouth entering the bloodstream and attaching to damaged parts of the heart. Bacteria in your mouth can reach your heart, and it can also infect or inflame your lungs, resulting in respiratory diseases such as pneumonia.

Even when life is stressful and it seems sensible to cut costs, it’s critical to maintain a regular hygiene practice for both oral and general health. Here are some tips from our experts at Turkish dentist clinic for maintaining good oral health for a lifetime:

-To protect gums and enamel, brush twice a day for at least two minutes with a soft bristled toothbrush.

-Floss every day (for tight-fitted teeth, using waxed floss will help get the floss into those small spaces; for wider spaced teeth, use tape-style or non-wax floss).
-Maintain a nutritious diet that is low in sugary foods and beverages.

-Fluoride toothpaste and mouthwash are recommended.

To maintain excellent oral health, visit every six months for a cleaning and check-up.