Oral health and the general health of the body are closely related. The mouth, like the skin, is an external indicator of the state of health and shows signs and symptoms of what is going on in the body.
Therefore, although we believe that teeth should only be white and clean there are other factors to consider as both teeth and gums should be checked and cared for by a professional every 6 months or more as recommended by your general dentist.
Whether we use them to process food or to present a relentless smile, the need to keep them healthy will always be the same, as avoiding oral disease in time will allow us to go on with life as we know it.
Because believe it or not, oral problems increase the risk of cardiovascular disease, cancer, chronic respiratory diseases, diabetes, and obesity. How does this happen? Well, let’s say you have a cavity. This cavity is caused by bacteria that, if left untreated, can perforate the teeth and even enter the bloodstream and affect any area of the body.
● Gingivitis: Gingivitis is caused by bacteria that cause inflammation and bleeding of the gums. The accumulation of plaque at the gum line is what causes this disease.
● Periodontitis: If a patient with gingivitis is not treated properly, the situation can worsen and affect the periodontium, the set of ligaments that fix the tooth to the jawbone. This would cause irreversible damage.
● Caries: Caries are the most common disease affecting teeth, mainly molars. If left untreated, they can destroy the teeth and even kill the central nerves. When they are still superficial, they need not be painful, nor practically visible.
● Halitosis: Halitosis is a condition that causes bad breath. It is estimated that around 40% of the population suffers or has suffered at some time from halitosis. Only a specialist can identify the source of halitosis, whether it is caused by gum disease, plaque formation, or dry mouth.
While avoiding oral and general diseases is reason enough to go to the dentist now and then, it is good to remember that we are not only avoiding future physical ailments, but also major expenses in medical terms, such as tests, appointments to different specialists, medicines, and plaque, as well as stress, headaches or migraines that can cause certain infections or oral diseases that we are unaware of.
Going to the dentist once or twice a year takes a tremendous weight and responsibility off our shoulders, which, by the way, is often multiplied by two or three when we have children, so it is better to be safe than sorry, as they say. And as a bonus, with one or two visits to fix any uncomfortable details of our smile, it’s not bad at all.
Another point to consider is children, whose oral health must also be treated, as the shape, size, and functionality of their teeth change as they grow and must be monitored at every step to avoid future problems that could affect their hygiene or general wellbeing.
Especially considering that according to statistics 42% of children between the ages of 2 and 11 have at least one cavity or filling, and 21% of children between the ages of 6 and 11 have cavities in their permanent teeth.
● First of all, the dentist gains the trust of the children so that they cooperate in the treatment to be carried out and thus ensure good oral health.
● They advise them on the toothbrushes, toothpaste, and mouthwash they should use.
● They observe the development of their dentition.
● They prevent caries in both milk teeth and permanent teeth.
● They recommend, if necessary, orthodontics.
● They repair teeth damaged by knocks or breakages, as the first two hours are essential to avoid future consequences.
● They monitor the growth of their mouth and look for any solutions to their dental problems until adolescence.
Trips to the doctor can be stressful. They can cause fear and even anxiety and it is quite reasonable, but these are the same reasons why we should keep our appointments regularly and get a dentist we trust, who will give us security when we put such an important part of our body in their hands.
That way, not only will we feel at ease and limit overthinking the situation, but we will also look after the wellbeing of our mouths and that of our children. In this way, our smiles will always be healthy. In addition, the economic investment in our oral health will be much smaller and optimal.
1. Brush your teeth after every meal: professionals recommend brushing them between 2 and 3 minutes after eating. This is basic, but we often don’t dedicate the time it takes or we don’t do it properly.
2. Don’t forget to brush your tongue: a large number of bacteria accumulate on your tongue due to its anatomy. This is the main cause of bad breath. That is why it is important to take the time to brush and clean this area as well. Always brush from the inside out.
3. Dental floss: Dental floss removes food debris that remains between the teeth, both in the larger spaces and in the smaller spaces there may be food debris. This forms dental plaque, which can cause various diseases in the oral cavity.
4. Use mouthwash: This should be the last step in a proper oral hygiene routine. In addition to preventing some diseases, it prevents bad breath and provides fresh breath. This is by no means a substitute for brushing.
5. A dental cleaning every year: Professionals advise a deeper cleaning at least once a year. The aim is to remove plaque and tartar build-up, especially in less accessible areas.
With these tips and regular visits to the dentist, you can enjoy every meal with safety and confidence because your mouth will be healthy and your teeth will be strong.
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