Everyone knows that practicing good oral hygiene can lead to a winning smile and pleasant breath. Regular flossing and brushing prevents cavities, plaque buildup and gum disease. However, many individuals forsake these easy routines, content to pile up dental work and never realizing that they may be harming more than just their mouth. It is important to floss daily in between meals. If you have large dental fillings it is important to floss more often since food is more likely to be trapped.
More and more scientific research points to the impact dental health has on the overall well being of a person. In fact, the state of an individuals teeth could extend, or prematurely end, his or her life. Unhealthy teeth can lead to healthy problems. Individuals who have preexisting health conditions such as diabetes need to be even more careful since this could make these conditions worse.
Perhaps most worrying of all, however, is the demonstrated association between gum disease and pregnancy complications. The added risk of infection can adversely affect a developing fetus, and is also shown to cause premature births and underweight babies. Children born too soon are more likely to develop asthma, mental disorders and growth problems. Pregnant mothers know not to drink, smoke or do drugs, but the benefits of flossing may not have occurred to them.
So with all of these ill-effects connected with gum disease and tooth decay, it's clear that practicing good oral hygiene is important for more than just a nice smile. But even those who brush every day may be leaving themselves vulnerable. To ensure adequate protections, individuals should develop a habit of brushing and flossing twice daily. If possible, brush teeth after every meal to avoid plaque build up.
Toothbrushes should be replaced every two months to prevent bacterial buildup, and individuals should have an annual dental exam for a deeper cleaning and checkup. Any tenderness, bleeding or pain should be examined by a professional as soon as possible. X-rays are important in seeing every hidden issue in the mouth. Have your dentist prescribe fluoride toothpaste to prevent further weak spots on teeth.
More and more scientific research points to the impact dental health has on the overall well being of a person. In fact, the state of an individuals teeth could extend, or prematurely end, his or her life. Unhealthy teeth can lead to healthy problems. Individuals who have preexisting health conditions such as diabetes need to be even more careful since this could make these conditions worse.
Perhaps most worrying of all, however, is the demonstrated association between gum disease and pregnancy complications. The added risk of infection can adversely affect a developing fetus, and is also shown to cause premature births and underweight babies. Children born too soon are more likely to develop asthma, mental disorders and growth problems. Pregnant mothers know not to drink, smoke or do drugs, but the benefits of flossing may not have occurred to them.
So with all of these ill-effects connected with gum disease and tooth decay, it's clear that practicing good oral hygiene is important for more than just a nice smile. But even those who brush every day may be leaving themselves vulnerable. To ensure adequate protections, individuals should develop a habit of brushing and flossing twice daily. If possible, brush teeth after every meal to avoid plaque build up.
Toothbrushes should be replaced every two months to prevent bacterial buildup, and individuals should have an annual dental exam for a deeper cleaning and checkup. Any tenderness, bleeding or pain should be examined by a professional as soon as possible. X-rays are important in seeing every hidden issue in the mouth. Have your dentist prescribe fluoride toothpaste to prevent further weak spots on teeth.
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