Your daily oral hygiene habits do more than just fight bad breath and keep your teeth white. In fact, brushing and flossing your teeth can actually help you live longer. Your oral health is often considered as a window to your overall health – and for good reason. The bacteria in your mouth doesn’t always stay there. Research has indicated that oral bacteria can enter your bloodstream, causing inflammation and other disruptive issues elsewhere in your body.
Your brushing and flossing habits are key weapons against gum disease. Gum disease is essentially an infection within your gums. If an oral infection is not tended to, it can produce significant consequences within your overall health. Untreated gum disease has been linked to serious medical conditions such as heart disease, stroke, diabetes, pneumonia and other health problems that are common in older adults. When you take steps to avoid such issues, like proper dental hygiene habits, you can essentially be adding years to your life!
What Is Proper Dental Hygiene?
The American Dental Association recommends brushing twice a day for two minutes each session. Always use a fluoride toothpaste that is marked with the ADA seal. In addition, you should floss on a daily basis. Your oral care should also include routine dental exams and cleanings, every six months for most patients. Lastly, a well-balanced diet that is low in sugar, acids and processed starches is recommended. The ADA Mouth Healthy website gives excellent oral care tips for each life stage here.
Want to live longer? Take care of your teeth and gums. Start the new year off right by scheduling your routine dental checkup at Gilreath Family Dentistry in Marietta.
Posted on behalf of Dr. Paul Gilreath IV,