Consequences of Poor Oral Hygiene
Poor oral hygiene invites plaque to accumulate around the base of
your teeth and gum line, causing your gums to become red and inflamed.
"Plaque is the bacteria-laden film that, if allowed to accumulate
on teeth and gums, will cause tooth decay and gum disease," Price
explains.
If you neglect the care of your teeth at home and fail to go to the
dentist regularly, accumulated plaque could potentially lead to the
development of empty spaces around your teeth. These spaces could
eventually lead to the destruction of bone and other fragile tissues
supporting your teeth, and you could lose your teeth.
The good news is that being diligent about your dental health care
and getting regular dental checkups can prevent plaque from forming and
even reverse early gum disease. "A plaque-free mouth is a healthy
mouth,” says Price. Along with regular dental checkups, “proper bushing
and flossing are the only effective ways I know of preventing plaque
buildup.