One of the first things people notice about you is your smile; it radiates warmth, joy, and compassion to others. Because you want to keep your teeth for a lifetime, practicing good oral hygiene is essential. Tooth decay and gum disease are highly prevalent in the United States, so education is critical to lowering your risk.
June is Oral Health Month, so the dental team at White Bear Smiles wants to share some interesting facts and important tips for excellent oral hygiene. Keep reading to learn more about maintaining healthy teeth and gums and protecting your overall health.
Did You Know?
- Recent research from the American Academy of Periodontology has demonstrated a link between overall health and gum disease. Your chances of contracting diseases such as diabetes, dementia, and heart disease are increased if you have periodontal disease.
- Your teeth are as unique as your fingerprints.
- Tooth decay and gum disease can increase body inflammation and harmful bacteria.
- We spend almost 40 days brushing our teeth throughout our lives.
Key Tips for Great Oral Hygiene
There are several ways to keep your teeth and gums healthy. Follow these tips for great oral hygiene:
- Brush your teeth in the morning and at night before you go to bed.
- Floss between each tooth at least once a day.
- Use an antibacterial mouthwash daily.
- Limit the amount of sugary and acidic foods and beverages you consume.
- Visit your White Bear Lake dentist twice a year for regular dental exams.
Who Is at Risk?
Certain groups are at higher risk for dental issues:
- Pregnant women
- Anyone with a chronic illness, such as heart disease, stroke, arthritis, or hepatitis C
- Current or former smokers
- Those with poor diets or who consume large amounts of sugar
Ready to Improve Your Health and Your Smile?
At White Bear Smiles, we believe excellent oral health needs to be nurtured daily, so we encourage you to regularly visit our White Bear Lake dental office for exams and cleanings. Summer is a great time to focus on your oral health; the kids are out of school, so scheduling appointments is more convenient.
Call us at (651) 426-8998 to schedule your next appointment! We can’t wait to see you smile.