Your bi-annual dentist visits go far beyond pearly white aesthetics. Here’s why you should double down on your oral health as an adult.
Oftentimes when we head to the dentist, we’re crossing our fingers that they don’t find a new cavity—but in reality dentists are looking for so much more.
As the Mayo Clinic states, your oral health is a window to your overall health. Endocarditis; cardiovascular disease; pregnancy and birth complications; and pneumonia are all linked to your oral health. And additionally diabetes, osteoporosis, HIV/AIDS and Alzheimer’s disease can all affect your oral health.
During your dental check-up and cleaning at Ladysmith Smiles, our dentists are checking for signs of tooth decay and gum disease that could lead to serious conditions and disease. With one out of seven Canadians experiencing some type of gum disease in their adulthood, good dental care is essential. Achieving a confident smile is just one of the many benefits that come from committing to your oral hygiene.
Here are 7 unexpected benefits of good oral health:
- Reduced heart attack risk. Individuals with periodontal disease are twice as likely to have a fatal heart attack than those without, according to the Canadian Academy of Periodontology. This is believed to be to small blood clots that can form and contribute to clogged arteries and build up of fatty deposits within the heart arteries.
- Healthier lungs. Eliminating the use of tobacco is transformative for your oral health. Oral cancer, periodontal disease and tooth decay are only some of the consequences of smoking. Tobacco remains the leading cause of preventable death and disease in Canada and limits the effectiveness of periodontal disease treatment therapies, according to the Canadian Dental Association. Seniors also significantly benefit from good oral hygiene. As we age, swallowing becomes more difficult and that can mean we become prone to developing lung infections such as pneumonia.
- Lower risk of diabetes. Since periodontal disease causes blood sugar to rise, treating the gum disease may help lower your blood sugar over time. It’s important to note that those with diabetes are more susceptible to periodontal disease and may require more frequent dental care.
- Healthier nutrition and successful weight loss. When you commit to limiting the sugary foods and drinks that are damaging your skin, more than your teeth will thank you. Nutritious foods that are good for your smile are also good for your entire body.
- Fewer pregnancy and birth complications. Mothers with periodontal disease are even times more likely to give birth to a low birthweight baby.
- Reduced bad breath. Oftentimes bad breath, known by the medical community as halitosis, isn’t just a sign of poor oral hygiene, but poor overall oral health. Gingivitis (gum inflammation) and dry mouth can cause chronic bad breath. Some medications also can cause halitosis. Visiting your dentist regularly can help ensure you have the right techniques in place for consistently fresh breath.
- Lower dental costs. When you stay consistent with your bi-annual teeth cleanings and rigorous with your oral hygiene, you can expect to have reduced dental bills. By seeing your dentist more often, any issues or concerns can be addressed before they become severe or require more intense (and often more costly) treatment. Prevention is the most economical way to keep up with your oral health.
How To Protect Your Oral Health
If your inspired by the plethora of overall benefits that come from committing to good dental care and oral hygiene, here’s where you should start:
- Floss then brush your teeth for two minutes each twice a day
- Limit sugary drinks and foods and if consumed, brush your teeth 20 minutes afterwards
- Choose healthy, nutritious foods
- Replace your toothbrush every three to four months
- Avoid tobacco use
- Make water your drink of choice
- Keep up with your regular dental checkups and cleanings
- If a dental concern rises, do not wait to contact your dentist
Dental Care in Ladysmith, BC
Ladysmith Smiles dental office, located in Ladysmith BC, aims to provide exceptional and accessible dental care for the local community. Our team of dentists and oral health care professionals actively work to create a safe and welcoming space for all smiles. We offer general checkups, cleanings, fillings, porcelain veneers, paediatric dentistry, Invisalign, teeth whitening and botox. We are always accepting new patients at both our Ladysmith location and Nanaimo location; contact our team to learn more.