Someone beautiful is often healthy and vice versa. The same idea applies to one's smile. You take care of your teeth and gums because you want that beautiful smile you'll be proud to show off. Yes, you want your gums and teeth to be healthy so you can be more likely to avoid cavities, gum disease, and other oral health conditions. The tangible result of a healthy smile, however, is a beautiful smile. Wanting to maintain your oral health through goes beyond giving you a great-looking smile. Here are some additional benefits of a healthy smile you may or may not be aware of:
A healthy mouth boosts overall health. Research has been done that indicates the interconnection between one's oral health and overall health. The Mayo Clinic mentions that germs and bacteria from severe gum disease can enter into the blood stream, causing serious infections in other parts of the body for people with compromised immune systems like those with HIV/AIDs. Infections can also be harder to fight for those with diabetes. Diabetics who have gum disease also have a more difficult time controlling their blood sugar levels.
The germs and bacteria from an unhealthy mouth can also lead to endocarditis, an infection of the lining of one's heart and clog arteries leading to cardiovascular disease. Periodontitis or severe gum disease has also been shown to increase the risk of premature birth and low birth weight for women who are pregnant.
Worsening oral health can also be a signal for decreasing overall health. The weakening of the jaw bone and tooth loss from periodontal disease can be an indication of worsening osteoporosis and those with Alzheimer's disease tend to experience worsening oral health as their condition worsens.
A healthy mouth can boost one's self-confidence and happiness. A healthy, beautiful smile makes one more willing to show it off. Those who regularly laugh and smile are shown to be happier, more confident and have a more positive outlook. They are also more enjoyable to be around. The act of smiling involves the use of muscles that elicit certain hormones to the brain that are associated with pleasure.
On the flip side are those with unhealthy mouths that always try to conceal their smile. Those that don't regularly smile are seen as cold and insecure and are at a higher risk of being depressed and unhappy.
A healthy mouth will give you that smile you can be proud of. That beautiful smile will also help you avoid other potentially serious health conditions and infections and it can boost your self-esteem, happiness, and quality of life.
Proper Oral Health
To achieve great oral health, one must take care of their teeth and gums. This is done with daily, at-home teeth brushing and flossing and regular, professional teeth cleaning and oral examination at the dental office every six months.
Teeth Brushing
The teeth should be brushed twice a day for two minutes each time. Be sure to use a soft or medium bristled toothbrush and don't brush too fast or too hard as one can accidentally scratch off one's tooth enamel.
Flossing
Flossing is just as important as teeth brushing. While many patients may forgo this step because it is too tedious and time-consuming, flossing can dislodge food debris from in-between teeth that a toothbrush can't.
If it has been more than six months since your last dental office visit and dental check-up, it is highly recommended that you schedule an appointment today. It may not be pleasant to see the dentist, but only a dental professional can assess the health of your mouth and detect any possible concerns.
It takes daily care to achieve a healthy mouth that looks great. Besides a beautiful appearance, a healthy smile can help maintain your overall health and increase one's happiness and quality of life.