15 Feb A Healthy Mouth is a Gateway to a Healthy Body
Much like the saying the “eyes are the window to the soul”, the same could be said for oral health and general well-being. Research has shown that a healthy mouth is literally a gateway to a healthy body, and many health conditions and oral diseases are linked. Everything from what you eat to how well you care for your teeth and gums can have an impact on your overall health.
Enjoying optimal health includes a commitment to practicing good oral hygiene, receiving routine professional oral healthcare, and eating a balanced healthy diet. When providing treatment, our oral surgeons strive to achieve two objectives: increase oral function and improve overall quality of life. Following are some helpful tips for establishing a solid foundation of good oral health.
Practice Meticulous Oral Hygiene
Keeping teeth and gums healthy begins with home care. Patients should brush their teeth at least twice a day, with one of those brushings occurring just before bed. Brushing is important for removing daily plaque deposits, stimulating the gums, and cleaning away leftover debris from food. In addition to brushing, flossing should be a part of daily oral care. Patients should floss once a day to remove food between teeth and disrupt the formation of bacterial colonies that form along the gum line.
Avoid Sugar and Acid
Sugar and acid doesn’t just effect your general health. Too much sugar and acid can affect your oral health, too. Sugar is a natural source of food for bacteria and acid weakens the enamel surface of teeth. Both of these substances contribute to bacterial colonization (ultimately plaque accumulation) and tooth decay.
Commit to Regular Cleanings and Checkups
Routine professional care is an essential part of keeping teeth and gums healthy. Checkups and cleanings are both important for early detection of disease and management of oral conditions like dental caries and periodontal disease. If conditions like this progress, patients may require specialty treatment such as bone grafts or tooth extractions from our oral surgeon.
To schedule a consultation with our caring doctors, call our oral and maxillofacial surgery practice today.