The majority of people dream of a pearly white smile. However, keeping your teeth, gums, and tongue healthy is a lot more important than having that extra vibrancy shining through. Your oral health is actually crucial to your overall health!
The problems that develop in the mouth have the potential to affect the rest of the physical body. The mouth is the very beginning of your entire digestive and respiratory systems. Everything and anything that enters through here makes its way down these systems. It might not be much of a surprise that the mouth can be a fantastic host to unwanted bacteria and these bacteria can then make their ways through the body through digestion and respiration.
Some conditions that have been linked to oral health issues include the following:
- Cardiovascular disease: There is research that suggests that clogged arteries, heart disease, and strokes could be connected to certain inflammations and infections caused by oral bacteria.
- Respiratory diseases: Some bacteria from the mouth can make its way down the respiratory system and eventually to the lungs. This has the potential of causing pneumonia amongst other respiratory diseases.
- Endocarditis: If bacteria from the mouth or other parts of the body spreads through the bloodstream, it has the ability to cause this infection of the lining of the heart.
- Pregnancy and birth complications: There is a direct link between periodontitis and premature birth as well as low birth weight.
Other conditions such as immune system disorders, eating disorders, rheumatoid arthritis, and certain types of cancers can also be connected to poor oral health. This is why it is imperative that oral health is treated as a health priority. Below are some essential activities you can implement in your life to ensure that your oral health is at its best.
Brush and Floss Your Teeth
Brushing your teeth twice daily is imperative for your overall dental health. This includes your gums’ health! Brushing your teeth can help remove any plaque that gets stuck between your gums and teeth. It is important to get rid of any residue in order for it not to build up over Brushing and flossing are the two most important things you can do on a daily basis to keep your teeth, gums, and tongue healthy. We always recommend that you brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss once daily. Being consistent with your oral hygiene will prevent plaque from building in your mouth and will allow you to have a healthy smile.
Use a Mouthwash
Rinsing your mouth with a mouthwash helps flush away any lingering bacteria that might be sitting in stillness there. This is a great option when you do not have the time for a full brushing or flossing session after a meal. Mouthwash can remove food particles from your mouth and keep it fresh.
Eat Whole Foods
Eating whole foods is always the best way to go when it comes to your overall health. This is also the case for your oral health. Indulging in natural snacks such as fruits and vegetables will go a long way. We also recommend limiting your sugar intake and minding the types of drinks you consume.
Schedule Regular Dental Checkups
Regular dental checkups are very important. Our team always urges our clients to schedule cleanings and checkups every six months. This allows them to notice any issues that arise quite early on. Early detection usually translates into an easier way to resolve the problem than if it is left untreated. There are also many preventative measures our dentists will recommend to some of our patients if they notice a potential issue could arise.
We understand that visiting a dental office can be a triggering event for some patients. We want to assure you that our team is welcoming, understanding, knowledgeable, and here to help you! If you are due for a dental checkup, we want to encourage you to reach out to us. We are here to assist you. We are here to help you reach an optimal level of oral and overall health!
