At Providence Dental Spa, we believe that good dental hygiene is essential for overall health and well-being. It not only keeps your mouth clean, but also helps prevent tooth decay and gum disease, both of which can have a detrimental effect on your physical and mental health.
Poor dental hygiene can lead to bad breath, stained teeth, cavities, infections and tooth loss, but the mouth is also the gateway to the rest of our body. Poor oral hygiene can lead to periodontal disease, which causes bacteria to enter the bloodstream and increases inflammation levels in arteries and other parts of the body. Good oral hygiene has the potential of reducing the negative impact of systemic diseases, like cardiovascular conditions, by reducing inflammation. Researchers have linked poor oral hygiene to bacterial pneumonia, infective endocarditis, sepsis, pregnancy complications, low birth weight and even cancer. It is vital to maintain good dental hygiene habits if you want to avoid these risks, protect your smile, and keep your mouth and the rest of your body healthy.
Here are Four Ways to Maintain Good Dental Hygiene:
Brushing & Flossing
Good dental hygiene starts with regular brushing and flossing. Brushing helps remove plaque buildup on the teeth that can cause cavities and other issues. Flossing can help get rid of food particles stuck between the teeth, which also contribute to bacterial build-up. Using a tongue scraper or brushing your tongue every day is also recommended, and also helps freshen breath.
Dental Check-Ups
It’s important to visit our dental office in Macon, GA, or our Newnan, GA office, for routine check-ups at least twice a year to further ensure good oral health. During these visits, your dentist will look for signs of cavities or other problems that may be developing inside your mouth. They may also recommend professional cleaning services, such as scaling or polishing, in order to keep your teeth looking their best. For some people with heightened risk factors, or diseases like HIV or cancer, regular dental check-ups become even more important to closely monitor their oral health and detect potential problems early on before they worsen.
Diet
It is essential to eat a healthy diet for good oral health. Eating foods that are high in sugar or acid can increase your risk of developing cavities or other damage to your teeth. Foods high in calcium, such as dairy products like milk, cheese, and yogurt are also beneficial for protecting tooth enamel, which helps prevent decay. Drinking plenty of water keeps the mouth hydrated while rinsing away food particles left behind after eating or drinking sugary drinks, like soda or juice.
Screenings
An additional option for protecting your smile is by undergoing regular oral cancer screenings at Providence Dental Spa in Macon, GA, where advanced diagnostic tools are used to detect early signs of cancer before they become serious issues. Early detection is key! If you are experiencing any symptoms, such as sores in the mouth that won’t heal after two weeks, or lumps in the neck area that won’t go away – schedule an appointment with us right away!
Ultimately, having a good oral hygiene routine plays a critical role in maintaining your healthy smile for many years to come, while also reducing your risk of developing systemic diseases down the line. Safeguard your oral health by brushing and flossing twice a day and regularly visiting our dental practice in Macon, GA, Providence Dental Spa, for professional cleanings and checkups!