We all know that brushing your teeth and regular dental cleaning and checkups are vital for our overall health, but why? What role does dental hygiene play in our health? How do you properly brush and floss your teeth to ensure good oral health?
The bacteria that builds up in your mouth is something you need to take care of on a daily basis. If left untreated, this bacteria can cause tooth decay and other serious health problems. Brushing regularly, flossing, and using a mouthwash containing fluoride help remove harmful bacteria in your mouth. Not only is it crucial for your oral health, but it can also be a significant factor in your overall health. Research has shown that maintaining good oral hygiene and having regular dental checkups with your dentist can lower your risk for heart disease, diabetes, and more. Dental procedures are also less costly when you have good oral hygiene.
Other reasons why dental hygiene is important:
- Prevents halitosis
- Improves overall appearance
- Prevents certain cancers, heart disease, and stroke
- Helps avoid needless dental procedures in the future
1) Oral Hygiene Keeps Your Breath Fresh
Bad breath is a very common symptom that many different things can cause, but it’s most commonly linked with bacteria in your mouth. Halitosis, or bad breath, can occur when food particles are left in your mouth after eating. This bacteria feeds off the sugars and starches that are left behind. If it’s not removed, this will eventually lead to cavities, gingivitis, and other health problems.
Halitosis can also be caused by smoking, drinking alcohol, and eating certain foods. Brushing your teeth after every meal and using a mouthwash can help get rid of the bacteria that may cause bad breath.
Chronic bad breath can affect your social life and relationships. Not only it’s embarrassing, but it can leave you feeling self-conscious, especially if others tell you that your breath smells. This is why proper dental hygiene is vital to keep your breath smelling fresh and clean.
2) Oral Hygiene Improves Your Appearance
When you have bad oral hygiene, it’s not only your teeth that suffer – your entire appearance takes a toll, too. Dental problems like cavities and gingivitis can cause the gums to bleed, which is very unattractive. If you’re self-conscious about how your teeth look, then it’s essential to keep them looking clean and healthy with proper dental care. Your smile is the first thing people notice when they look at you, so having a nice smile can leave an impression on others.
3) Oral Hygiene Prevents Heart Disease And Stroke
How can oral health be related to serious medical conditions like heart disease and stroke? The Cleveland Clinic reported that research has shown a connection between gum disease and stroke. If bacteria in your mouth get into the bloodstream, they may cause C-reactive protein levels to rise, which can indicate inflammation of blood vessels leading to ultimately the risk of heart disease or even dementia.
Gum disease, or gingivitis, has been linked with the development of cardiovascular diseases because it can cause inflammation throughout the entire body. If you’re suffering from inflamed gums, then it can cause the arteries in your heart to become inflamed as well. This is what can lead to coronary artery disease, which can put you at higher risk for a heart attack or stroke.
4) Oral Hygiene Helps Avoid Needless Dental Procedures In The Future
If you don’t practice good oral hygiene, you’re more likely to develop cavities and other dental problems. This means you’ll most likely need to visit the dentist more often for treatment and procedures. In some cases, these procedures can be pretty expensive and time-consuming. However, by practising good oral hygiene, you can avoid many of these problems that would otherwise lead to costly procedures.
Final Thoughts
Good oral health goes hand in hand with overall good health. It’s important to brush and floss your teeth twice a day. Aside from keeping the gums healthy, it can also help prevent heart disease, stroke and other health problems. Dental hygiene is something that should be taken seriously and practised every day. Follow these tips for good oral hygiene, and you’ll be on your way to a healthy mouth and body!
If you are looking for a trustworthy and reliable dentist in North Adelaide, then please contact us at North Adelaide Smiles on 08 8244 3144 to make an appointment or leave an enquiry.