Someone who is beautiful is usually healthy and vice versa. The same idea applies to the smile itself. You take care of your teeth and gums because you want that beautiful smile that you will be proud to wear. Yes, you want your gums and teeth to be healthy so you have a better chance of avoiding cavities, gum disease, and other oral health conditions. However, the tangible result of a healthy smile is a beautiful smile. However, wanting to maintain your oral health goes beyond just giving you a big smile. Here are some additional benefits of a healthy smile that you may not know about:
A healthy mouth improves overall health. Research has been conducted indicating the interconnection between oral health and overall health. The Mayo Clinic mentions that germs and bacteria from severe gum disease can enter the bloodstream, causing serious infections in other parts of the body for people with compromised immune systems such as those with HIV / AIDS. Infections can also be more difficult for people with diabetes to fight. Diabetics with gum disease also have a harder time controlling their blood sugar levels.
Germs and bacteria from a diseased mouth can also lead to endocarditis, an infection of the lining of the heart and clogged arteries leading to cardiovascular disease. Periodontitis, or severe gum disease, has also been shown to increase the risk of preterm labor and low birth weight for pregnant women.
Worsening oral health can also be a sign of deteriorating overall health. Weakening of the jaw bone and tooth loss due to periodontal disease can be an indication of worsening osteoporosis, and people with Alzheimer’s tend to experience worsening oral health as their condition worsens.
A healthy mouth can increase self-confidence and happiness. A beautiful and healthy smile makes one more willing to show it off. Those who laugh and smile regularly appear happier, more confident, and have a more positive attitude. It is also more pleasant to be around them. The act of smiling involves the use of muscles that trigger certain hormones in the brain that are associated with pleasure.
On the other hand, there are those with sick mouths who always try to hide their smile. Those who don’t smile regularly are seen as cold and insecure and are at a higher risk of being depressed and unhappy.
A healthy mouth will give you that smile you can be proud of. That beautiful smile will also help you avoid other potentially serious health conditions and infections and can boost your self-esteem, happiness, and quality of life.
Proper oral health
To achieve good oral health, you have to take care of your teeth and gums. This is done with daily home brushing and flossing and regular professional dental cleaning and oral exam at the dental office every six months.
Tooth brushing
The teeth should be brushed twice a day for two minutes each time. Be sure to use a soft or medium-bristle toothbrush and don’t brush too fast or too hard, as one can accidentally scratch the enamel on your teeth.
Flossing
Flossing is just as important as brushing your teeth. While many patients can skip this step because it is too tedious and time-consuming, flossing can dislodge food debris from between the teeth that a toothbrush cannot.
If it has been more than six months since your last dental office visit and dental check-up, it is highly recommended that you make an appointment today. It may not be pleasant to see the dentist, but only a dental professional can assess the health of your mouth and detect any potential concerns.
Daily care is needed to achieve a healthy mouth that looks great. In addition to a beautiful appearance, a healthy smile can help maintain your overall health and increase happiness and quality of life.
