Oral health and our overall health are linked. Poor oral health can lead to other serious problems such as diabetes and heart disease. As we grow older, we need to have functioning teeth so that we can continue to eat the foods that best benefit our overall health. Read on to learn more, and thanks for visiting us at Mt. Juliet and Cookeville Endodontics.
Because your oral health is directly tied to your systemic health, good dental hygiene is important at any age. However, a quality oral hygiene routine becomes critical as you age in order to maintain healthy, functioning teeth and minimize the general health risks associated with dental problems such as tooth decay and periodontal disease.
The foundation for good oral health is your daily dental care routine. This should include brushing your teeth at least twice daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush and a fluoride toothpaste approved by the American Dental Association (ADA).
Brushing should be followed at least once every day by flossing. Flossing helps to remove food particles that become trapped in hard-to-reach spaces between your teeth that brushing alone cannot eliminate.
After brushing and flossing, you may choose to rinse your mouth with an anticavity, antiseptic mouthwash. Using a mouthwash can leave you with pleasant breath, but it can also kill lingering bacteria that contribute to halitosis and plaque accumulation, as well as help flush remaining bits of food.
In addition to brushing and flossing every day, it is important to visit your general dentist for regular dental exams and professional teeth cleanings. The ADA recommends that most people visit a dentist once every six months.
These regular checkups allow your dentist to assess your oral health and treat potential problems such as cavities or gum disease early, before they impact your overall health. Left untreated, dental health issues such as tooth decay or periodontal disease can contribute to an increased risk for serious health problems including hypertension and heart disease.
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