Oral health doesn’t stop at a bright smile and fresh breath
Your smile speaks volumes about your overall health. While many people associate oral health solely with a bright smile and fresh breath, the truth is that it extends far beyond aesthetics. Research has increasingly shown a profound connection between oral health and overall well-being, highlighting the importance of maintaining a healthy mouth for a healthier body.
The mouth serves as a gateway to the body
Several studies have demonstrated the link between poor oral health and various systemic health conditions, including:
Heart disease: Research suggests that periodontal (gum) disease may increase the risk of heart disease and stroke. The inflammation and bacteria associated with gum disease can contribute to the development of cardiovascular problems.
Diabetes: Individuals with diabetes are more prone to gum disease, and gum disease, in turn, can make it challenging to control blood sugar levels. Managing oral health is crucial for diabetic patients to prevent complications.
Respiratory infections: Poor oral hygiene can lead to the accumulation of harmful bacteria in the mouth, which may be inhaled into the lungs, increasing the risk of respiratory infections such as pneumonia.
Pregnancy complications: Pregnant women with gum disease may have a higher risk of delivering preterm or low birth weight babies. Maintaining good oral health is vital during pregnancy to reduce the risk of complications for both mother and baby.
Alzheimer’s disease: Emerging research suggests a potential link between oral bacteria associated with gum disease and an increased risk of Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia.
What can you do to be better at maintaining oral hygiene?
You’re likely to be doing most of these tasks daily but take a moment to reflect on whether you could be doing them a little more intentionally.
Tip: Scribble these down on a piece of paper and tape them to your toothpaste tube. When you’re brushing your teeth, have a quick look to remind yourself of these daily habits that help keep your teeth happy.
Brush and floss regularly: Brush your teeth at least twice a day and don’t forget to floss daily to remove plaque and food particles that can lead to gum disease and tooth decay. Use fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush to clean all surfaces of your teeth thoroughly.
Clean your tongue: Gently brush or scrape your tongue to remove bacteria and food debris that can contribute to bad breath and oral bacteria buildup. A tongue scraper or your toothbrush can effectively clean the surface of your tongue.
Use mouthwash: Incorporating an antimicrobial mouthwash into your oral hygiene routine can help reduce plaque and gingivitis, freshen your breath, and reach areas that brushing and flossing may miss. Look for mouthwashes containing fluoride for added cavity protection.
Visit your dentist regularly: Schedule dental check-ups and cleanings at least twice a year to monitor your oral health and address any issues early on.
Eat a balanced diet: Choose nutritious foods rich in vitamins and minerals, and minimise your consumption of sugary snacks and beverages, as well as acidic foods like citrus fruits and tomatoes. These foods can weaken tooth enamel and increase the risk of decay.We’re not robots. When you do have these foods, make sure you rinse your mouth to help prevent these foods from lingering.
Avoid tobacco products: Smoking and chewing tobacco increases the risk of gum disease, oral cancer, and other health problems. Quitting tobacco is essential for both oral and overall health.
Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water throughout the day helps wash away food particles, neutralise acids in the mouth, and stimulate saliva production, which is crucial for maintaining oral health. Aim to drink water after meals and snacks, especially if you can’t brush your teeth immediately.
Protect your teeth: If you participate in contact sports or grind your teeth at night, consider wearing a mouthguard to protect your teeth from injury and wear. Additionally, wearing a night guard can help prevent damage caused by bruxism (teeth grinding) during sleep.
Practise proper denture care: If you wear dentures, clean them daily with a denture cleanser and brush to remove plaque and food particles. Remove your dentures at night to give your gums and bone a chance to rest, and soak them in a denture solution overnight.
Be mindful of oral piercings: If you have oral piercings, such as tongue or lip piercings, practise good oral hygiene to prevent infections and damage to teeth and gums. Rinse your mouth with an antiseptic mouthwash after meals and clean your piercing regularly.
It’s a daily habit
By incorporating these additional oral hygiene practices into your daily routine, you can maintain a healthy mouth and reduce the risk of dental problems in the long term.
The mouth is not separate from the rest of the body but rather a vital component of overall health and well-being. Remember, your mouth is a vital component of overall health and wellbeing, so taking care of it is essential for a healthier, happier life.
Schedule your next dental appointment with us today and take the first step towards a healthier you.
