Good oral and dental hygiene will help prevent tooth decay, bad breath and gum disease, but did you also know that good oral care can help prevent other diseases and conditions, and that a dentist can often spot a health problem before you even know it exists? Research is showing there are plenty of reasons to brush, floss and see a dentist beyond a healthy smile.
Without proper dental hygiene practices, bacteria from the mouth could spread through the bloodstream and cause endocarditis, an infection of the inner lining of the heart. Some research also suggests that cardiovascular disease may also be linked to inflammation and infections that oral bacteria can cause. Gum disease has also been linked to low birth weights and premature births in pregnant women. (Mayo Clinic Staff, 2016)
Conversely, your dentist can sometimes spot health problems with you or a loved one before you know you have them such as dementia, osteoporosis, heart problems, diabetes, gastroesophageal reflux disease or GERD and even eating disorders. (Everyday Health, 2013) This makes regular dental visits even more valuable!
Seeing a dentist twice a year should be a part of everyone’s overall health plan, not just for a healthy mouth and smile, but also for a healthy body. Between dental visits, you can ensure you’re doing your part by:
- Brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste
- Flossing daily
- Eating a balance diet and limiting sugar intake
- Avoiding tobacco use
We can’t stress the importance of good dental hygiene enough, and recommend seeing your dentist twice a year in conjunction with proper home care. Your health and well-being is important to us. If you don’t already have a dentist, or are looking for a new dentist, you can trust us to help you find one of the top dentists in the area by going to our referring dentist page.
Sources:
Oral health: A window to your overall health. (2016, April 30). Retrieved January 25, 2017, from http://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/adult-health/in-depth/dental/art-20047475
7 Health Problems Your Dentist Can Spot. (2013, January 22). Retrieved January 25, 2017, from http://www.everydayhealth.com/dental-health-pictures/health-problems-your-dentist-can-spot.aspx#07