Your oral hygiene is something that you maintain, not just to keep your pearly white smile. Evidence has been mounting to support the link between oral health and overall physical health. This adds to the reason why keeping that daily brushing habit and flossing technique are so important.
If you are still unconvinced, read this post here for lesser-known benefits of top oral care for your general health.
A Healthier Heart
People who have periodontal disease are, according to the Canadian Academy of Periodontology, at a higher risk of heart disease compared to those without it. In fact, they are twice as likely to have a fatal heart attack as well. Inflammation increases your risk for heart disease, and those with gum disease are subject to longer bacterial exposure and have higher levels of inflammation throughout their body.
A Healthier Pregnancy
Women who have poor oral health are more likely to deliver babies pre-term and with low birth weights. These babies are also more likely to have developmental issues, ear infections, asthma, behavioral problems, brain abnormalities, and are more at risk of infant death. Pregnant women should then maintain their oral hygiene for themselves and their babies.
The Link To Diabetes
Patients with diabetes are not just more likely to have gum disease, but the link goes the other way too. Serious gum disease may also lead to diabetes because of the effect on blood glucose control. Periodontal disease will lead the body to increase resistance to insulin and blood sugar levels go up.
Detect Oral Cancer
One of the best things about regular check-ups is the dentist making sure that soft tissues are healthy and cancer-free. Anything suspicious in the lips, cheeks, tongue, or the gums will be inspected and if there is anything to be concerned about like a pre-cancerous lesion, your dentist will alert you immediately to go to your doctor.
Help In Losing Weight
Brushing your teeth after eating is a good trick to control your food intake. You will be able to avoid indulging in a sweet dessert just through tooth brushing. After all, minty toothpaste will make any food taste strange. However, if you have eaten or drank something acidic, you need to wait a few minutes before brushing your teeth in order to prevent damage.
Given these health benefits of maintaining oral hygiene, you should follow these simple tips to make sure your mouth, teeth, gums, and tongue are always clean and healthy.
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Twice A Day Brushing
A regular and proper brushing routine is the first defense against plaque and bacteria. With a flat toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste, brush all the surfaces of all teeth (all the way to the back). Do not forget to brush the gum line as this is where plaque tends to migrate towards.
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Flossing
Flossing or using an interdental brush will clear the spaces between teeth, as well as any other hard-to-reach nook and cranny in your mouth. Getting rid of all food particles stuck between teeth will help avoid tooth decay, bad breath, and gum disease.
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Limit Snacking
Snacking or frequent eating will expose your teeth to plaque acid more often than when you just eat 3 full meals a day. This will mean that the teeth have less time to recover from acid attacks during eating. If you are hungry between meals, reach out for cheese, milk, popcorn, or water.
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Quit Smoking
Smoking has been proven over and over again by research as a cause of gum disease. Each cigarette has tons of toxins that are strong enough to destroy tooth tissue faster. It may also disguise any signs of gum disease.
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Visit Your Dentist And Hygienist
Early oral cancer detection is more likely when you continue to visit your dentist and hygienist regularly. Moreover, they can do check-ups and cleanings, to find and stop tooth decay. Fillings will strengthen your teeth and cleanings will remove any plaque build-up that is not removed during tooth brushing.
There can really be no more doubt that maintaining top oral health is good for you and by doing so, you and your overall health will benefit greatly. Follow these oral hygiene tips and discover the advantages for yourself.