Taking care of your teeth isn’t just about having a bright smile, it’s about keeping your whole body healthy. When we don’t take care of our teeth and gums, it can cause problems that go beyond just our mouths. Here’s why it’s so important for everyone in the family to brush, floss, and visit your dentist regularly.
Why is oral health important?
Poor oral health can have terrible effects on your whole body. Your gums have the most significant influence on your overall health, and gum disease is associated with a number of systemic health conditions, such as;
Heart disease
When bacteria from gum disease get into your bloodstream, they can stick to the walls of your arteries, causing your arteries to become narrower. This in turn can slow down blood flow and increase the chance of you having a heart attack or stroke.
Alzheimer’s disease
Bacteria from gum disease can travel to the brain and cause inflammation and damage to the brain cells which can be connected to Alzheimer’s disease. Taking good care of our teeth and gums helps keep these bacteria away and keeps our brains healthy too.
Diabetic complications
People with diabetes are at a higher risk of periodontal disease, as they have thickened blood vessels which reduce blood flow and can weaken the gums and bone in your mouth. Having periodontal disease can also make your blood sugar difficult to control and can then make your diabetes worse. If you are a diabetic, then keeping on top of your oral health, and visiting your dentist regularly, is very important for early intervention.
Rheumatoid Arthritis
Losing teeth or having them extracted because of poor oral health, means that your jaw and mouth bone starts to become much more brittle. This tooth loss can increase your risk of rheumatoid arthritis. Taking care of your oral health can reduce the need for extractions and keep your mouth strong and healthy.
4 tips to look after oral health
1. Correct dental hygiene – brush and floss
Brushing twice daily with a fluoride toothpaste and using floss is very important for your health. If you’re having trouble with brushing techniques or experiencing issues with your gum health, reach out to one of our experienced dentists and they can tailor an at-home oral health care routine to get you back on track.
2. Regular check-ups – twice a year
Visit us at Gosford Family Dentist twice a year for your regular dental check-ups. We’ll give your teeth a high-powered clean, check your teeth for decay, review existing dental work, check your gums for signs of disease, and screen your mouth for oral cancer and other oral diseases.
3. Replace your toothbrush every three months
If your toothbrush is old and worn it’s not going to clean effectively, and will start to build up bacteria. It’s a good idea to replace your toothbrush every three months, or sooner if the bristles are starting to look worn.
4. Eat healthy foods
Fruits and veggies are not only packed with healthy nutrients, they also help to remove plaque from your teeth when you chew. Healthy foods also stimulate saliva flow, which helps to wash away any plaque or bacteria that are found in your mouth.
Stay on top of your oral health with Gosford Family Dentist
Every part of our body is interconnected, so poor health in one part can mean poor health in others. Maintaining a healthy oral hygiene routine, making healthy food choices and visiting your dentist regularly will keep your teeth, mouth, and smile in great condition for years to come. Contact the friendly team at Gosford Family Dentist today on 4325 3221 to book your next appointment.
