Taking care of your teeth and gums can have a significant impact on your overall health. It is not just about having a healthy smile and fresh breath; it’s also about preventing serious problems such as heart disease, diabetes, and pregnancy complications.
Oral and dental disorders can significantly affect a person’s quality of life, as well as their ability to speak, eat, and sleep. This is why it’s important to have good oral health and to see your dentist regularly, starting in childhood.
Dental health is the status of your mouth, including the teeth, tongue, jaw, and the surrounding tissue. A healthy mouth means your teeth are free of cavities, your gums are pink and do not bleed when you brush or floss, and your breath is fresh. It also includes a diet that is low in sugary foods and drinks, and avoiding tobacco and excessive alcohol consumption.
Preventive care includes brushing and flossing twice a day, using fluoride toothpaste and other oral hygiene products, and having routine cleanings and checkups with your dentist. It also includes limiting the amount of starchy foods in your diet, such as crackers and bread, which break down into sugars that bacteria feed on, leading to tooth decay. It is also important to drink plenty of water, and avoid sugary soft drinks.
In addition to preventive measures, restorative dentistry provides solutions for damaged or missing teeth. This can include crowns, bridges, root canal therapy, and dental implants. A dentist can also address crooked or overcrowded teeth through orthodontic treatments such as braces. Finally, dental exams and X-rays can help catch and treat issues such as gum disease, tooth decay, and bone loss.
Dental problems often start small and can grow to have a large effect on a person’s quality of life. For example, untreated cavities can lead to pain and tooth loss, while bad breath may interfere with speech or eating. These problems can also affect a person’s self-esteem and affect their ability to work or interact with others. They can even lead to underlying health conditions, such as diabetes or heart disease.
Oral and dental conditions can be prevented with proper hygiene and regular visits to the dentist, beginning in childhood. In fact, the ADA has defined dentistry as an essential health service for its role in evaluating, diagnosing, and preventing oral diseases that can have a systemic impact on your body. So make sure to brush and floss daily, limit sugary food and drinks, stop smoking, and see your local dentist in Torrance regularly for checkups and X-rays. By doing so, you can help ensure your best possible health and a bright, beautiful smile for life.