Decay is not a direct indication of lifespan; however, it does have an impact. Poor oral hygiene and the presence of plaque and bacteria have been linked to various conditions that are more prone to result in early death. The key is prevention. Reducing your risk of tooth decay begins with good oral hygiene practices and routine dental checkups every 6-12 months. Here’s more about how tooth decay and periodontal disease impacts one’s lifespan.
Tooth Decay and Lifespan
Tooth decay, or dental caries, is the leading cause of tooth loss among adults and children worldwide. The bacteria create a sticky substance known as “plaque” which hardens into “tartar” if not removed. This plaque and tartar build-up leads to tooth decay if not removed on a regular basis with a dental tool called a “soft-scrub brush”. Tooth decay is not a direct indication of lifespan; however, it does have an impact.
Is there a correlation between Good Oral Hygiene and Longer Life?
Several studies have linked good oral hygiene and decreased levels of periodontitis. For example, the Harvard Health Professionals Study found that people with periodontitis (an oral disease caused by bacteria that can lead to tooth loss) had a 60% higher mortality rate than those without the disease.
The key is prevention. Reducing your risk of tooth decay begins with good oral hygiene practices and routine dental checkups every 6-12 months. There is no direct correlation between the two; however, it is important to note that poor oral hygiene may lead to chronic conditions such as heart disease and diabetes.
Health Conditions Linked to Poor Dental Health and Decay
Aging is a natural process that does not equate to an early death; however, poor dental health and the presence of plaque and bacteria are linked to numerous chronic diseases that may shorten one’s lifespan.
Some of these conditions include:
Obesity: The presence of plaque and bacteria has been linked to obesity, which can lead to chronic illnesses such as heart disease and diabetes.
Heart Disease: The bacteria found in the mouth and on the teeth can lead to plaque buildup in the arteries of the heart.
Diabetes: Bacteria found in the mouth can also lead to elevated blood sugar levels and contribute to the onset of diabetes.
Stroke: As with heart disease, plaque in the arteries found in the brain can lead to stroke.
Conclusion
Tooth decay is a common oral health issue that can be prevented with good oral hygiene practices and routine dental checkups. The key is prevention, which begins with good oral hygiene practices and routine dental checkups every 6-12 months.
