Brushing twice daily, flossing, and visiting your dentist every six months for cleaning and exam: these three things require minutes out of your day and an hour or two of your time twice a year. But the significance of these actions can impact more than just a pretty smile.
The links between oral health and overall health have been the subject of studies for decades. The conclusion being drawn is that there is a direct correlation between the two making caring for your dental health a significant component in your overall health condition.
You hear a lot about inflammation … a process by which the body’s white blood cells and substances they produce protect us from infection with foreign organisms, such as bacteria and viruses. Inflammation can occur anywhere in the body, and in joints, it is usually diagnosed as arthritis. Heart disease can be attributed to inflammation as well as many autoimmune conditions like diabetes. Gum disease can also start out as inflammation … you can begin to see the connection between oral and overall health.
There are many ways to control or correct the underlying problem of inflammation in gum tissue. They include brushing at least twice every day with a fluoridated tooth paste; flossing daily to remove food debris not reached by your tooth brush and to stimulate gum tissue; and visiting your dentist every six months to have plaque that has accumulated since your prior visit removed; teeth are polished to look their best; and an oral exam is completed to catch a problem before it can escalate.
Prevention is a powerful tool to protect health … abstain from tobacco and illicit drug use; limit sweet treats to special occasions; drink lots of water (many so-called health drinks contain sugar so read labels carefully); exercise; get sufficient sleep … you will soon realize the things advocated for your overall good health will protect your dental health as well.
If a dental problem arises, do not delay in getting treatment. Bleeding gums, chronic bad breath, and receding gum tissue is not normal at any age. You could be dealing with gingivitis or the more serious periodontitis. Left untreated, this could lead to infection and possible tooth loss.
The things we do to protect our oral health will contribute to overall good health as well. To get more tips about overall and oral health, call our team today!
