We all agree that dental health should be prioritized, and that keeping your teeth, gums, and mouth in great shape contributes to excellent health overall.
Why Is Dental Health So Important?
Studies have now demonstrated clear connections between the health of your mouth and the health you are experiencing in the rest of your body. Without proper oral care habits such as brushing, flossing, and regular trips to your dental care professionals, you are at risk for developing periodontal disease, or an inflammation of the soft tissues in your mouth.
Excess bacteria and food particles build up in a dirty mouth, creating the formation of plaque on teeth and along the gumline. If these bacteria take up residence long term, it can wreak havoc on all of your body’s systems, including:
Cardiovascular health
Chronic inflammation and chronic pain
Development of other conditions such as endocarditis and diabetes
Long-term infestation of bacteria in the mouth also put you at risk during dental procedures, as this bacteria could be allowed to gain entrance into your bloodstream and produce systemic damage throughout your body. If that isn’t reason enough alone to motivate you to create good oral care habits at home, you may be at risk for developing serious health consequences.
Good Oral Care Habits
Developing good habits of brushing, flossing, and examining teeth and gums daily will help avoid having to undergo more costly dental interventions in the future. Other things you can do to create a healthy mouth include eating a healthy diet, taking fluoride supplements as directed by your dental care professionals, and visiting your dentist at least twice a year for in-depth cleaning and examination of teeth.
With a plethora of dental care products on the market today, though, how do you know which products are right for you and your mouth? How do we begin to wade through what is available to us and find the premier products amidst a sea of ones that don’t necessarily deliver what they promise?
Let’s take a look at some of the essentials you will need to create optimum oral health at home.
Toothbrushes You should ideally be looking for a toothbrush that has soft bristles; one that won’t continue to erode or damage gum tissue as you are brushing. Comfort is key here--you won’t want to brush your teeth if you find using your toothbrush awkward or uncomfortable. If you are prone to tartar or plaque buildup, you might want to consider choosing a battery powered brush, as they are a bit more effective at removing buildup on teeth. Replace your toothbrush every three months, or when it begins to show signs of wear and tear. Brushing with a worn out toothbrush can potentially damage gum tissue, so being proactive with replacement will help your teeth and gums stay in tip-top shape.
Toothpaste With flavors ranging from bubble gum to strawberry, cinnamon to chocolate mint, it seems that marketers are trying to make the allure of toothpaste as appealing as possible. Taste should not be the only consideration you give to this important purchase, however. For children, it is essential to look for toothpaste that has been approved by the ADA, or American Dental Association. It should contain fluoride to strengthen teeth, and it should have a flavor that appeals to your child. Use a small amount the size of a pea on their toothbrush, and encourage them to spit out rather than swallow any that is left in their mouths after brushing. For adults, it is important to assess your own needs when picking out toothpaste. Again, it should be approved by the ADA, it should contain fluoride to protect teeth, and it should address any concerns you may have about your teeth, such as whitening or sensitivity issues. If you have questions, check with your dental care provider to see which products he/she endorse.
Floss Whether you choose waxed or unwaxed, pre-measured strands or an electric flosser, flossing is one of the most important care steps you can take in order to protect your teeth and gums. Choose a brand and a type that is comfortable for you and that effectively removes excess food and other particles from gums and teeth. Individuals have different needs with regard to flossing, so it is not uncommon for families to have several different types of floss in the house. No matter what you choose to use, floss consistently, and you will see your dental health improve significantly.
Mouthwash/Mouth Rinse The jury is still out on whether mouthwashes are necessary for long-term dental health care and maintenance, but there are several products on the market that cite benefits such as whitening, freshening breath, protecting against plaque buildup, and fortifying the teeth against acidic and sticky foods. Choosing to use mouthwash is an extra insurance policy against decay, as many of them are designed to work in tandem with brand-specific toothpaste to enhance the actions of both.
Dental Care Visits: An Essential Piece Of The Puzzle
While you may have impeccable dental hygiene habits, they are no substitute for professional care and assessment as part of a long term dental health plan. Dr. Gordon E. Krueger and his talented team of associates are passionate about dental health, and they are ready to create a one of a kind dental care experience for you. Make your dental health a priority; visit https://www.gordonekruegerdds.com today to set up your appointment. A brighter, healthier smile is in your future!
