Neglecting your oral health causes many dental issues, including tooth decay, gum disease, and, eventually, tooth loss. But researchers are finding more reasons to follow a proper oral hygiene routine. A clean, healthy mouth may also help you prevent overall health problems such as heart disease and even cancer. Read on as Dr. Klym explains why it’s important to maintain your oral health and offers tips for keeping your mouth healthy.
The Consequences of Poor Oral Health
As dental professionals, we see first hand what neglecting your teeth can do to your oral and overall health. The good news is that, in most cases, these problems can be prevented with proper oral care. Some of the conditions that are caused by poor oral hygiene include:
- Tooth Decay and Gum Disease – When we don’t properly clean our teeth, bacteria is allowed to thrive, leading to a buildup of sticky plaque. This plaque, if not removed, causes tooth decay and gum disease.
- Tooth Loss – Gum disease is the main cause of tooth loss in adults in the United States. Eventually, if we continue to neglect oral hygiene, gum disease will progress from gingivitis to the advanced form of periodontitis. In this stage, the supporting bone and gum tissues start to deteriorate, leading to tooth loss.
- Systemic Conditions – Several recent studies show a link between gum disease and systemic conditions like heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and cancer. Researchers are still unsure whether the link is caused by oral bacteria or the inflammation it causes. However, they do know that treating gum disease can help prevent or manage the symptoms of these conditions.
Prevent Oral Problems with Proper Hygiene
Dr. Klym offers these tips for taking care of your teeth and gums. Following these tips will help protect your overall health:
- Brush your teeth with fluoride toothpaste for at least two minutes, twice a day.
- Floss between your teeth at least once a day.
- Finish your daily oral health routine with a fluoride oral rinse at least once a day.
- Visit your dentist for biannual checkups and professional cleanings.
- Seek proper treatment if you notice any signs of gum disease, such as bleeding after brushing, swollen or sore gums, or shifted teeth. The sooner you get treatment for gum disease the better the outcome.
Schedule a Checkup at Northwood Dental
If you notice any signs of gum disease, or you’re due for a checkup, contact Northwood Dental to schedule an appointment. We will examine your teeth and gums and, if any potential problems are found, suggest a course of treatment to help you avoid bigger issues in the future. Dr. Brian Klym and the entire Northwood Dental team will do everything we can to help you achieve and maintain total oral health. Schedule your appointment today!