Maintaining good oral hygiene goes far beyond having a bright smile. It’s also a very important contributing factor to your overall health.1 Dentists in Houston, TX, want patients to maintain good oral health, as many people often overlook simple habits that could prevent major dental issues later on. Here are some facts that dentists wish patients in Texas knew about oral hygiene.
Oral health is closely linked to overall health
Did you know that poor oral health is correlated with other major health conditions like heart disease and diabetes? For example, when oral bacteria spread through the blood to settle in parts of the heart like the inner lining, patients could develop endocarditis (infection of the heart lining or endocardium.2 In some cases, the relationship between systemic health conditions and oral health could be bidirectional, which means health conditions impact oral health and vice versa. This isn’t to say that maintaining oral hygiene will resolve other major health concerns, but it can be a preventive measure that may contribute to overall health.
The right brushing technique matters
Brushing harder or longer won’t necessarily leave your mouth clean and plaque-free. However, the right combination of time and technique can make all the difference. Dentists recommend holding your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to your gum line when you brush. Use gentle, circular motions and brush all surfaces, including the back of your front teeth and the gum line. Experts also suggest brushing your teeth for two minutes, which is about 30 seconds per quadrant. Don’t forget to follow up with a thorough tongue cleaning.
Proper dental care during pregnancy is vital
Pregnancy can be an exciting but stressful time for many women. Most families are focused on seeing their OB-GYN, getting regular ultrasounds, and maintaining a healthy diet. However, dental care is equally important during this phase. Pregnant women may face an elevated risk of gum disease and tooth decay, so it’s important to maintain good oral hygiene at home and get regular dental checkups.3 When you see your dentist, disclose your pregnancy and any medications or prenatal supplements you may be taking. If you notice tooth sensitivity, tooth pain, or bleeding gums, see your dentist right away.
Your dental checkup is also a cancer screening
Many people aren’t aware that their routine dental checkups include oral cancer screenings, too. Head and neck cancers affect roughly 66,000 Americans annually and are fatal to around 15,000 patients.4 Dentists look for any irregularities or inflammation in your mouth and will take a close look at oral tissues, including your cheeks, tongue, palate (roof of your mouth), and throat. Skipping dental checkups means you miss out on this essential screening and lose the opportunity to catch major oral health problems before they escalate.
A healthy smile starts at home, but regular dental checkups play an important role in the process. Dental checkups are essential to help you catch oral health issues and to get personalized information about dental treatments like teeth whitening, dental implants, braces, or dentures in Houston. Seeing your dentist regularly makes it easier for you and your dental care team to protect your oral health.
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