As a general dentist can testify, a person’s oral health plays a key role in the overall health of the body, with problems that affect the mouth potentially impacting the rest of the body. While the eyes may be considered a window to the soul, the mouth is often considered a window into a person’s physical condition. The mouth is full of bacteria, and while these are generally harmless, the direct connection from the mouth to the respiratory and digestive tract makes oral hygiene an important line of natural defense.
Taking care of the teeth is not just about preserving or developing a beautiful smile. Dental habits can either help or hurt the functional and structural integrity of the teeth and gums. Teeth can decay when exposed to plaque and food bacteria, and decay that is left untreated can lead to tooth loss. Excessive tooth loss can weaken the jaw and create concerns with bone loss.
To remove harmful bacteria and particles from the mouth, brushing and flossing are encouraged at least twice a day. To increase the effectiveness of brushing, use toothpaste that contains fluoride. This nutrient helps slow down the demineralization of teeth, leaving them less susceptible to cavities. The use of a mouthwash reduces the buildup of bacteria, and an antiseptic mouthwash can prevent gingivitis.
Daily oral hygiene routines are preventatives against serious tooth concerns, but making routine dental appointments is also a part of proper oral hygiene. A thorough examination of the mouth can identify early signs of serious conditions that require treatment:
A general dentist can also evaluate the effectiveness of someone's oral hygiene routine and provide clear instruction on how to properly care for the teeth. Having the right tools for taking care of the teeth also makes a difference in oral health, and a dental visit can do a more thorough job of removing tartar and other buildup than at-home remedies or self-care processes.
A person’s oral health not only impacts the ability to eat or speak but can also contribute to other health conditions. Endocarditis is an infection around the inner lining of the heart valves or chamber caused by germs or bacteria that may have entered through the mouth. Pneumonia can be caused by certain bacteria in the mouth that has been pulled down into the lungs. Low birth weight and premature births have been linked to periodontitis.
Researchers are also studying possible links between strokes, clogged arteries, heart disease, and oral bacterial infections. Oral hygiene practices help remove the threats of bacteria buildups in the gums and mouth, and regularly brushing the teeth or rinsing the mouth with an antiseptic mouthwash can reduce the number of germs that enter the rest of the body.
Oral hygiene is more important than many people realize, not just for strong teeth and healthy gums but also for a healthy body. For concerns with an oral condition or an evaluation of your hygiene routine, schedule an appointment with a general dentist.
Request an appointment here: https://fortleefamilydental.com or call Fort Lee Family Dental at (201) 620-9772 for an appointment in our Fort Lee office.
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