Oral health refers to the condition of your teeth and mouth. But oral health goes beyond just your mouth; it affects your overall health and wellness. As scientists and researchers learn more about the human body, there is overwhelming evidence linking oral health to a variety of medical conditions including heart disease, lung disease, and diabetes.
To improve your health and general well-being, here are the top 5 tips for maintaining your oral health.
Brush Your Teeth
Brushing your teeth removes plaque, a sticky film of food residue and bacteria that clings to the teeth. When it is not removed, the bacteria contained in plaque will slowly eat away at your tooth enamel, causing cavities. It can also lead to periodontal disease, a bacterial infection of the gum tissue. Dentists recommend brushing your teeth at least twice a day or after each meal.
Floss Your Teeth
It is also important to floss your teeth. The spaces between your teeth and the pockets between your teeth and gums can collect plaque that your toothbrush can’t reach. Flossing removes the plaque to prevent cavities from forming between your teeth and keeps periodontal disease from developing. Dentists recommend flossing once a day, either in the morning or at night before going to bed.
1. Go To The Dentist
In addition to taking care of your own teeth, it is important to have professional dental care as well. Routine dental appointments should be scheduled every 6 months for teeth cleanings and oral evaluations. Your dentist can remove plaque in areas that may be missed while brushing and flossing at home. Dentists also have specialized tools that can remove hardened plaque, called calculus or tartar, that your toothbrush is not able to remove.
Oral evaluations can detect any oral health concerns that may need to be addressed. Early detection can improve treatment outcomes for patients in cases of periodontal disease or oral cancer.
2. Practice Mindful Eating Habits
What you eat and how often you eat can have a significant effect on your oral health. Foods high in sugar increase bacteria levels in your mouth and cause plaque to cling to the teeth. It is also important to avoid constant snacking and sipping on anything other than water. Your mouth needs time between eating to build up enzymes that protect your teeth from decay.
3. Avoid Tobacco
Smoking or chewing tobacco increases your risk of tooth decay, periodontal disease, and oral cancer. By impeding circulation to the soft tissues of your mouth and producing a film that clings to the teeth, tobacco has a negative effect on your oral health and overall wellness.
Frequently Asked Questions About Oral Health
Why is gum disease linked to diabetes?
The theory is that patients with diabetes have a higher concentration of sugar in their saliva, which increases bacteria levels in the mouth, resulting in a higher risk of gum disease.
Can you brush and floss your teeth too much?
Yes, it is possible to brush and floss too frequently, resulting in receding gums and damage to your tooth enamel. Stick to a regular schedule of brushing twice a day and flossing once a day for optimal oral health.
