During a time when many individuals are getting very sick, it is very important to take good care of your health. This means not only washing your hands and keeping your nose and mouth covered in public but also keeping tabs on your oral hygiene. Ignoring your dental health can cause you to become ill and put you in danger. Taking care of your dental hygiene is important for the health of your gums and teeth, but it is also vital for preventing other serious illnesses. In this article, our team at Symmetry Dental explores how you can practice good oral hygiene and the consequences of not caring for your oral health.
Why is Good Oral Hygiene Necessary?
Poor dental hygiene can lead to a variety of conditions. Here are some of the ways neglecting your oral health can affect you:
Cavities
One of the most well-known results of poor oral hygiene, cavities are caused by a buildup of plaque and bacteria on your teeth. If you let a cavity go without treatment for too long, it will lead to tooth decay, and you will require even more extensive treatments from a dental clinic near you.
Gum Disease
Another common disease that can occur if you neglect to care for your teeth and gums is gingivitis. Bacteria infect the gums surrounding your teeth, causing them to become red, inflamed, and painful. It can also cause your gum line to recede, which spells major trouble for your teeth. Luckily, if you visit a dentist in Cranbrook early enough, gum disease can be reversed.
Other Illnesses
This may surprise some readers, but your mouth is not the only area of your body that can be affected by poor oral hygiene. If the bacteria in your mouth go without treatment for too long, then they can make their way to other parts of the body, such as your digestive system and bloodstream. Health issues have been linked to poor oral health, including:
- Birth complications
- Pneumonia
- Cardiovascular disease
How Can You Practice Good Oral Hygiene?
If you are worried about protecting your oral health, you can do a few things to ensure it stays in good shape:
- Ensure that you brush your teeth twice a day for at least two minutes and floss at least once a day.
- Mouthwash can be great for getting rid of any additional bacteria on the tongue or roof of your mouth.
- You must book an appointment for professional dental cleanings and exams in Cranbrook at least once every six months to help keep your teeth as clean as possible and check for any signs of tooth decay or gum disease.
When to See a Dentist
If you notice something off about your oral health before it is time for your regular dental cleaning and exam, you may want to make an emergency appointment. Here are some signs that indicate you need an early appointment:
- Overly sensitive teeth or gums
- Bleeding gums
- Visible cavities
Visit Symmetry Dental
Now that you understand the importance of maintaining optimal oral health for as long as possible, don’t hesitate to contact our team at Symmetry Dental for professional dental cleanings and exams near you. We are happy to help you maintain your oral health and stay in good health for years to come!