You know that brushing and flossing are vital components to protecting the health of your teeth and gums, as well as regular appointments with your dentist in Marietta. However, did you know that your oral hygiene habits are equally as important to protecting your overall health? They are directly linked to influencing your overall well-being. When complications like gum disease develop, it can quickly cause medical issues to occur, like cardiovascular disease. To protect your health, it is critical that you are proactive about your oral hygiene.
Protect Your Overall Health
It is estimated that half of adults have a form of gum disease, which is an infection that develops in the gum tissue due to poor oral hygiene. When left untreated, it wreaks havoc on your teeth and gums, eventually leading to tooth loss. However, your smile is not the only area that will suffer.
The bacteria that is responsible for the infection can enter the bloodstream and circulate throughout the body. As this occurs, your health will start to decline. You can develop cardiovascular disease, increasing your risk for heart attack and stroke. You can also suffer from repeat respiratory infections while also having an increased risk for Alzheimer’s disease. If you have diabetes, your complications can worsen and become more difficult to manage.
Prevent the Complications from Gum Disease
Thankfully, there are several things you can do to protect your smile and overall health. With the right oral hygiene habits, care from family dentist in Marietta, and a balanced diet, you will reduce your risk for the damaging consequences of gum disease.
- Brush Twice a Day: Use a fluoride toothpaste and soft-bristled toothbrush to clean all surfaces of your teeth twice a day for at least two minutes.
- Floss Every Night: Before going to bed, use a high-quality dental floss to remove plaque and tartar accumulations from in between the teeth and around the gum line.
- Visit Your Dentist Twice a Year: Schedule an oral hygiene cleaning with your dentist every six months to clean areas in the mouth that you cannot reach at home. In addition, have a dental checkup at the same time to spot gum disease while it is still manageable and reversible.
- Eat a Balanced Diet: The foods and drinks you consume impact your dental and overall health. Avoid those that are high in sugars and acids to protect the teeth and gums from damage. Choose vitamin-rich foods, proteins, and low-fat dairy products to keep your body and smile healthy.
Get a Healthy Smile Today
If you have not been to your dentist recently, now is the time to schedule an appointment. Do not wait for issues to develop. Protect your smile and overall health with the proper dental care.