Your oral and general health are closely connected. Many dental problems can increase your risk of health issues, like heart disease, nutritional deficiencies, and more. With your mouth the gateway to your body, healthy teeth and gums are important for your wellness. Here’s how you can safeguard your smile against 4 common dental conditions.
1. Tooth Decay
Tooth decay is preventable, but 92% of adults have had at least one cavity. Decay occurs when the hard outer layer of your tooth suffers erosion from cavity-causing bacteria. Your enamel protects the inner layers of your tooth and is the strongest substance in your body, but it can’t regenerate. Once your enamel is lost, it’s gone for good. With no treatment, a small cavity can eventually lead to tooth loss.
Brushing and flossing are your first lines of defense against tooth decay. Limit your consumption of sugars and starches, which feed harmful bacteria. Visit your dentist every 6 months for a cleaning and checkup to ensure your teeth are healthy.
2. Gum Disease
Gum disease is also a common cause of tooth loss, which affects at least 50% of adults. It’s caused by bacteria in plaque and tartar buildup. The infection can destroy the supporting structures of your teeth and enter your bloodstream. Gum disease is also connected to many health issues, including an increased risk of heart attack, diabetes, and pregnancy complications.
Brushing isn’t enough to keep your gums healthy because your toothbrush can’t reach everywhere in your mouth. The American Dental Association recommends using high-quality floss to clean between your teeth daily.
3. Bad Breath
It’s normal to have bad breath occasionally, like after eating onions or garlic. However, 60 million Americans suffer from chronic bad breath. It can be caused by many issues, like untreated dental problems, a dry mouth, or poor oral hygiene. Too much oral bacteria causes unpleasant odors.
You can keep your breath minty fresh by committing to your home oral hygiene routine and visiting your dentist regularly. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and keep your mouth moist to combat oral bacteria growth.
4. Oral Cancer
Despite what you might have heard, you don’t have to smoke to be at risk of oral cancer. 54,000 Americans are diagnosed with oral cancer every year. It claims the lives of 9,700 people annually. Unfortunately, many new cases of cancer aren’t found until they have reached advanced stages.
You can benefit from the power of early detection by scheduling a cleaning and checkup twice a year. Your dentist will perform an oral cancer screening at each routine visit.
It’s never too late to recommit to your dental health. You can keep your smile healthy by giving your mouth the attention it deserves.
About Dr. Andrew Hale
Dr. Hale earned his dental degree from Case Western Reserve University and has regularly pursued continuing education in many specialties, like dental implants, complex extractions, and IV sedation. He strives to provide the most up-to-date services. Request an appointment through his website or call (802) 347-9608.