You might think that dental hygiene is all about keeping your pearly whites look, well, white. That couldn’t be further from the truth. Dental hygiene, which involves brushing, flossing, and regular dentist visits has much larger importance than your cosmetic appearance. In fact, there are many reasons why oral health and hygiene matters.
Why Oral Health Matters
Good oral health actually translates to good overall health. You might think a rotten tooth only impacts your oral health, but it can actually impair your ability to eat and speak properly and can cause enough pain to prevent you from doing regular activities and even exercising. That is just a small example of how poor oral health can have a large negative impact on your overall health and well-being.
There are even studies that show bacteria from your gum disease can travel to your heart and potentially cause heart disease, strokes, or clogged arteries. Practicing good oral hygiene routines can help you stay healthy, active, and happy.
How to Maintain Your Oral Health
Now that you know how much oral hygiene matters, you might be wondering what you can actually do to keep your mouth healthy. The first step is to brush your teeth regularly. You should brush for at least two minutes twice a day using a quality fluoride toothpaste. You will also want to floss daily and schedule regular 6-month appointments with your dentist for thorough cleanings. In addition, watching your diet is also important. Keeping sugar and alcohol intake to a minimum is important for your oral health, as is avoiding tobacco and smoking. Also, if you notice any slight issues or pain in your mouth that lasts more than a day or two, scheduling a checkup with your dentist is a good way to catch a minor problem before it becomes a larger one.
Possible Side Effects of Neglecting Oral Health
If you fail to maintain your oral hygiene you are putting yourself at greater risk for cavities, which can eventually lead to the need for a root canal or total tooth replacement. You might also suffer from gingivitis, which can be extremely painful and even inhibit you from eating. In addition, poor oral hygiene can cause problems elsewhere in the body, including kidney disease, cancer, infertility, diabetes, dementia, and heart disease. Isn’t spending five minutes a day on your oral health a small price to pay considering the alternatives?
Turn to Commack Dental Design for All Your Dental Needs
If you’ve been neglecting your teeth and are experiencing pain in your mouth as a result, turn to the experts at Commack Dental Design. Not only do we have an experienced team of dentists and endodontists, but we also have a state-of-the-art dental facility in Commack. From root canals and dental implants to Invisalign and general dentistry, you can trust the experts and Commack Dental Design. Our pain-free and relaxing approach to dentistry is unlike anything you’ll find elsewhere. To schedule your appointment, call our office today!
