Oral hygiene is maintaining the health and cleanliness of the mouth, teeth, and gums to keep them healthy and strong. Good oral hygiene prevents future dental problems and can help you achieve a beautiful, healthy smile.
At Lake Pointe Dental Group, we believe oral hygiene affects more than the mouth but is the foundation of your overall well-being. Our experienced team of dental hygienists and dentists in O’Fallon, IL, are dedicated to teaching comprehensive preventative care to help you maintain a healthy mouth and a healthy life. Learn more about our dental services.
The Connection Between Oral Health & Overall Health
Your oral hygiene strongly correlates to your overall health. Poor oral hygiene can lead to various dental issues and health problems. Practicing proper oral hygiene habits can help reduce your risk of developing these conditions:
- Bad Breath
- Cavities
- Gum Disease
- Tooth Decay
- Heart Disease
- Stroke
- Diabetes
- Dementia
Research has shown that bacteria and other microbes can enter your bloodstream when plaque builds up in the mouth. Because of this, poor oral hygiene can negatively affect more severe places in the body, including the heart and lungs, and lead to other chronic health issues. For instance, bacteria from an infected mouth can enter the bloodstream and cause infections in other parts of your body, like your kidneys and lungs.
The Cost of Neglecting Oral Health
Neglecting your oral health can lead to health problems, resulting in expensive dental procedures or major restorative work. For instance, if left untreated, cavities can cause an infection requiring root canal therapy or tooth extraction. Also, gum disease can lead to periodontal treatments such as deep cleaning and scaling. These treatments add up!
In addition to dental treatments, conditions such as stroke or heart disease are typically costly. Luckily, these unnecessary costs can be prevented- you must learn how to care for your mouth correctly.
Tips for Maintaining Good Oral Hygiene
To maintain good oral hygiene, brushing your teeth at least twice daily with fluoride toothpaste is essential. You should also floss daily and use an antibacterial mouthwash. By following these simple tips, you can do your part to ensure your teeth and gums remain healthy.
While maintaining good oral hygiene at home, visiting your dentist for regular checkups and dental cleanings is still very important. During these visits, your dentist can identify potential issues and provide treatment if needed. Additionally, professional cleaning from a dental hygienist removes plaque buildup and helps keep your teeth and gums healthy.
Experienced Dentists in O’Fallon, IL
To maintain good oral hygiene and excellent health, brush your teeth at least twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, floss daily, and use an antibacterial mouthwash. Visiting your dentist regularly for professional cleanings and checkups is also very important.
Lake Pointe Dental Group provides comprehensive dental care to patients. If you are looking for a dentist in O’Fallon to help maintain your oral health, we are happy to help answer any questions and provide the best solutions for your needs.
Contact us to learn more about our services and schedule an appointment.