Now that it’s officially 2019, have you made any resolutions? This time of year usually causes people to make positive changes in their diet or exercise, but one part of their health tends to be forgotten: oral health. Taking care of your mouth not only keeps your smile looking and feeling great, but it can also have an affect on your overall wellbeing. Keep reading to learn about why it’s important to maintain good oral health in Ormond Beach and how it can affect your overall health.
The Link Between Your Oral and Overall Health
Besides keeping your smile looking nice and white, your oral health can actually affect your overall health. Issues like gum disease and tooth decay are linked to a higher risk of cardiovascular disease, stroke, diabetes, and more. Additionally, missing teeth can shrink and deteriorate your jaw, causing an older and more sunken looking face.
A good oral healthcare routine is not only linked to longer lifespans, but it also increases your chances of success in your work and social lives. Studies show that a healthy-looking smile can make you appear more youthful, confident, successful, and loyal.
How Can I Maintain Good Oral Health at Home?
Thankfully, your dentist in Ormond Beach has a guide for the best ways to keep your mouth looking and feeling great outside of the dentist’s office:
Routine Brushing & Flossing
Be sure to brush twice a day and floss once to maintain healthy teeth and gums. You can pack travel-sized brushes and floss in your bag or purse for on-the-go oral healthcare while traveling or at work.
Plaque and bacteria buildup in the mouth without daily brushing and flossing, which causes dental issues like cavities, decay, gum disease, and so much more. A daily routine is your best defense against more serious dental issues that can occur.
Mouthwash
Mouthwash is something you can add to your routine as a finishing touch. Your teeth only make up 40% of your mouth, so a good mouthwash can rinse areas of your mouth that brushing and flossing couldn’t clean.
Water & Sugarless Gum
Water is your mouth’s best friend. Not only does it keep you hydrated and healthy, but it can prevent the growth of bacteria in your mouth. It can wash away germs and food debris that collect in your mouth throughout the day. Additionally, most tap water contains fluoride, which is a natural cavity-fighting mineral.
A surprising tip is to chew sugar-free gum in between meals. This helps stimulate your saliva flow, which washes away cavity-causing plaque and bacteria in the mouth.
Now that you know the way your oral health is connected to your overall health, use these tips to keep your teeth, gums, and body as healthy as possible.
Meet the Dentist
Dr. Andrew Nawrocki is a skilled dentist with a passion for quality care. He believes in patient education, which is why he wants you to know some of the best ways to take care of your teeth outside of the office. He currently practices at Brown & Nawrocki, and he can be contacted through his website or by phone at (386) 677-1046 for any questions.