Looking after your teeth and gums isn't just important for maintaining a bright smile, but can also help you avoid various serious medical conditions that can be transmitted through the mouth - including diabetes, respiratory diseases and heart conditions. Some studies have also linked poor oral health with low birth rates in women.
Getting into the habit of brushing and flossing your teeth regularly can be the most effective way to combat plaque build-up and avoid cavities developing, and you may also wish to modify your diet to be less damaging to your teeth - reducing the sugar and acid content of meals and snacks and favouring foods rich in calcium that can strengthen enamel. Using fluoride or antibacterial mouthwash can also help to minimise the amount of bacteria present in your mouth, as can drinking lots of water.
Other issues with teeth and gums can have wide-reaching effects on a person's health and wellbeing too. If your teeth are misshapen or crooked, this can lead to problems with eating and digestion that can impact on your health, while other mouth issues may cause people to lose self confidence and can affect their emotional wellbeing throughout their lives. Untreated cavities can also be extremely painful, causing headaches and, at times, even nausea.
Visiting your dentist every six months (or as often as the dentist recommends) can help you to better understand your personal oral health, and to discuss different types of dental treatment that may be beneficial to you. If you have dental insurance, this can give you greater peace of mind and financial security, especially when you choose a comprehensive policy that covers a range of procedures for you and your family.
As well as performing or arranging any treatments that may be needed, your dentist will also be able to recommend methods to improve your day to day teeth and gum care at home, if they identify certain problems that need to be remedied. Having X-rays taken of your teeth at least once per year will give a clear indication of the state of your mouth at different times, and make it easier for your dentist to track your progress over time. As well as being examined by a dentist, your check-up may also involve a session with a dental hygienist, who will remove tartar from your teeth and may also apply sealants and other treatments to help protect your teeth.
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