Have you ever canceled a dentist appointment because you felt your teeth were fine as they were? Because unhealthy teeth may not always present physical symptoms, many people ignore their oral health and take their teeth for granted. However, having a false sense of security that your teeth are healthy may lead to various problems that can impact your day-to-day life and overall wellbeing. Let’s take a peek at what a life with unhealthy teeth might look like.

Say goodbye to your favorite foods

Think of some of your favorite foods to indulge in. Now picture not being able to enjoy these foods because of limitations on what you can and can’t chew. Oral health issues like “tooth loss, gum disease, and cavities” can directly impact what you’re able to eat. Many people with loose or missing teeth have to switch to a diet full of soft foods that are easy to chew and swallow, which could mean less of your favorite chocolate bars or chips and salsas.

Less social interaction

For many, a neglected smile can be a reason to avoid conversations, negatively impacting their social life and mental health. According to the American Dental Association, 23% of adults feel embarrassed of the condition of their mouth and teeth, and 25% avoid smiling altogether because of these feelings.

Chronic mouth pain

Unhealthy teeth can cause severe pain in the mouth, often in the form of toothaches. Toothaches can be a consequence of poor oral health, often caused by tooth decay, cracked teeth, loose or broken fillings, or even bacterial infections. Toothaches can also occur when the pulp in your tooth becomes infected with bacteria, and because the nerves inside your teeth are sensitive, the pain can be extremely serious. If left untreated, toothaches can spread throughout the whole body, leading to more severe health issues down the line.

Shorter lifespan

There’s no doubt that tooth loss can affect quality of life, with side effects like difficulty chewing food, embarrassment, and pain, but can your teeth actually impact the length of your life?

Recent studies have found that your number of teeth can correlate to your life expectancy. Specifically, results showed “those with 20 teeth or more at the age of 70 had a considerably higher chance of living longer than those with fewer than 20 teeth.”

Keep your teeth healthy with proper oral health care

Taking proper care of your teeth is essential for maintaining good oral health. Simple habits like brushing twice a day, flossing regularly, limiting sugary food and drinks, and avoiding smoking can go a long way in keeping your teeth healthy. Additionally, it’s important to visit the dentist at least once a year for check-ups and cleanings, even if you think your teeth are fine.

Dental insurance can provide financial support for both routine visits and unexpected dental emergencies. Find a Delta Dental provider near you today.