We all know that good oral hygiene is important, but sometimes it’s hard to make the time for proper brushing and flossing. Between work, family, and social obligations, our teeth often end up taking a backseat. However, failing to maintain good oral hygiene can have serious consequences down the road. In this blog post, we will discuss the importance of oral hygiene and how you can maintain it despite a busy schedule!

The Importance of Good Oral Hygiene

Our teeth are the gatekeepers to our digestive system – without healthy teeth, it’s difficult to properly chew and digest food. In addition to this, poor oral hygiene can lead to a variety of issues including bad breath, gum disease, tooth decay, and more. Therefore, it is essential that we make the time for proper brushing and flossing.

The Connection to Overall Health

Although oral hygiene may not seem like a major concern, it can actually have an impact on your overall health. Poor oral hygiene is linked to several illnesses such as heart disease and stroke, bacterial pneumonia, diabetes complications, and even Alzheimer’s Disease.

The bacteria that infect the gums and cause gingivitis and periodontitis also travel to blood vessels elsewhere in the body where they cause blood vessel inflammation and damage; tiny blood clots, heart attack and stroke may follow. 

What to Know About Gum Disease

Gum disease is an infection of the gums caused by bacteria that builds up when plaque isn’t removed from the teeth. If left untreated, gum disease can lead to serious health complications. Symptoms of gum disease include red and swollen gums, bleeding after brushing or flossing, receding gums, and pain when chewing.

Stages of Gum Disease

Gum disease is divided into two stages, gingivitis and periodontitis.

• Gingivitis – This is the earliest stage of gum disease and is caused by bacteria in plaque that accumulates on teeth. Symptoms may include redness and swelling of the gums, bad breath, and bleeding after brushing or flossing.
• Periodontitis – This is the more advanced stage of gum disease and can lead to tooth loss and other serious repercussions. Symptoms may include red, swollen, or tender gums, receding gums, loose teeth, chronic bad breath, pus around the teeth and gums, and changes in your bite or the way your teeth fit together when you bite.
• Advanced Periodontitis –  This is the most serious stage of gum disease and can cause tooth loss, jaw bone deterioration, and other serious health problems.

How to Maintain Good Oral Hygiene

It can be difficult to maintain good oral hygiene with a busy lifestyle, but it is not impossible! Here are a few tips to help keep your teeth healthy:

• Brush twice daily – Most dentists recommend brushing your teeth twice a day, for two minutes each time. Be sure to brush the tops and bottoms of your teeth as well as your tongue.
• Floss once daily – Flossing helps remove plaque and food particles from between the teeth that regular brushing can miss. It also helps prevent gum disease.
• Use an antiseptic mouthwash – This helps to reduce bacteria and plaque in the mouth.
• Visit your dentist – Regular dental checkups are important for maintaining good oral hygiene. During these visits, your dentist can identify any potential issues with your teeth or gums, and help you stay on top of your oral health.
• Limit sugary drinks and snacks – Sugary and acidic foods can cause tooth decay, so it’s important to limit them.
• Quit smoking – Smoking can increase the risk of gum disease and other oral health issues.

Good oral hygiene is essential for maintaining our overall health. Taking a few extra minutes each day to brush and floss can help prevent a variety of serious health issues. Making sure to visit the dentist regularly and limiting sugary foods and drinks are also important steps in maintaining good oral hygiene. Taking care of our teeth now will help us have healthy smiles for years to come!

Make an Appointment with Premier Dentistry of Eagle

With proper care, you can maintain a beautiful, healthy smile that will last a lifetime. Premier Dentistry of Eagle provides comprehensive dental services designed to improve your oral health in the most efficient way possible. Our team is committed to providing you with an individualized approach to your oral health care, so contact us today to make an appointment. We look forward to helping you achieve the smile of your dreams!