Maintaining good dental hygiene is crucial for a healthy mouth and our overall well-being. Neglecting dental care can lead to serious issues with teeth and gums, impacting not only oral health but also overall physical health.
However, simple daily practices like brushing, flossing, and using mouthwash can go a long way towards ensuring optimal dental hygiene and improving our self-confidence.
Here, we look at the importance of good dental hygiene and how to keep our teeth in tip-top condition.
The consequences of poor dental hygiene
Failing to maintain good dental care can result in a host of problems in the mouth, including tooth decay, gum disease, bad breath, and tooth loss. Many of these conditions are common in the UK. According to the Oral Health Foundation, almost one in three adults (31%) have tooth decay, while three quarters (74%) have had a tooth extracted.
As well as these issues, plaque can lead to damage to the teeth and gums. This sticky film of bacteria forms on our teeth and can harden into tartar. When this happens, it can be possible to experience gum inflammation and eventually periodontitis.
Untreated gum disease has been linked to various health conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory infections. Moreover, oral infections can spread to other parts of the body, posing a risk to overall health.
How our oral health impacts our overall health
Poor dental hygiene has been associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, diabetes complications, respiratory infections, and even adverse pregnancy outcomes.
Bacteria from gum disease can enter the bloodstream, triggering inflammation and contributing to inflammation throughout the body. By maintaining good dental hygiene, you can reduce the risk of these health issues and look after your overall wellbeing.
Caring for our teeth
Thankfully, proper dental hygiene is relatively simple. Brushing your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste helps remove plaque and prevent tooth decay.
Flossing at least once a day is also a key step in your oral care routine. This removes plaque and food particles from between the teeth and along the gumline. Using a water flosser can be an effective alternative to traditional flossing, particularly for those with braces or sensitive gums.
Incorporating mouthwash into your oral care routine helps kill bacteria and freshen breath. Try to use mouthwash at different times of the day rather than straight after brushing your teeth as this can interfere with the job the fluoride in the toothpaste is doing.
Regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings are also vital for maintaining good dental health.
Feel good
Taking care of your teeth and overall dental hygiene not only promotes better physical health but also boosts your confidence. A healthy smile can make you want to be more sociable and make you feel good mentally. By investing in proper dental care, you can enjoy the benefits of a healthy mouth and a positive self-image.
