Dental hygiene is beneficial to overall good health. In fact, lack of oral hygiene tends to leave people open to more illnesses and more long-term health risks. As we discussed in our blog last month, poor oral health is linked to coronary artery disease, clogged arteries, and stroke.
Luckily, it’s pretty simple to practice the highest level of oral hygiene daily. Doing so won’t require much time or effort. It’s mostly about knowing what you should do and then doing it! With this in mind, we’d like to talk about the best way to keep your mouth healthy and to improve your general health via proper oral hygiene.
Brush and Floss Twice Per Day
When you brush and floss twice per day or more, you’ll be able to combat periodontitis, which is linked with higher incidences of diabetes and heart conditions. Bacteria in the mouth may go into the bloodstream and become attached to lipids, which then strain the heart and make the body more susceptible to health problems. For this reason, ridding your mouth of germs through careful brushing and flossing is highly recommended.
To facilitate the process, use a soft-bristled toothbrush, toothpaste, and dental floss approved by the Canadian Dental Association.
Go to the Dentist Regularly
If you already have heart problems, it’s good to tell your dentist about your health issues. If you don’t, seeing your dentist regularly may assist you in avoiding heart problems and other oral hygiene-related health problems down the line! This is why we recommend seeing your dentist at least twice a year. Regular cleanings and checkups will help you to keep your mouth in the best possible condition. Of course, you’ll also access cosmetic benefits, as clean, bright teeth are just so attractive to others!
The cost of dental care is well worth the investment and you may have coverage through work or a health plan. Even if you don’t, it’s definitely worth paying for. Dental care is an investment in your own good health.
Diabetics Need Special Care
If you are diabetic, you may find that you have to cope with more oral hygiene problems as a result. For example, a lot of people who are diabetic cope with yeast infections in the mouth and are more likely to lose teeth and have gum disease. As well, if you do suffer from periodontitis which is diabetes-related, it may make your diabetic symptoms worse.
Those who are diabetic should make every effort to brush and floss after meals and to see their dentists frequently. Doing so may help them to alleviate some of the symptoms of diabetes.
Now that you understand more about the importance of good oral hygiene, you’ll be ready to care for your mouth and boost your overall health. Speak with your Teal Umbrella dentist if you have any further questions.
