Sedation Clinics
Are you spending as much time caring for your smile as you should? According to the Academy of General Dentistry, the average American only brushes their teeth for about 45 to 70 seconds each day – less than half of the recommended time (at least two minutes per session when brushing twice daily). Since October is National Dental Hygiene Month, it’s a good time to remind yourself why oral health is so important. For example, your dentist in Lexington can name the following 4 benefits of brushing and flossing well every day.
1. Preventing Gum Disease
If you don’t thoroughly remove the plaque on your teeth and gums, over time the bacteria it contains will infect the gums. In its early stages, gum disease is relatively mild; you might notice some swelling or redness in your mouth, or you may find that your gums bleed somewhat easily. However, untreated gum disease can eventually lead to tooth loss and other severe health problems. With good oral hygiene, you’ll have a better chance of avoiding the worst-case scenario altogether.
2. Avoiding Cavities
People who eat a lot of sugary foods and then don’t brush and floss afterwards are at an increased risk for cavities. This is because tooth decay is caused by the harmful bacteria in your mouth feeding on sugar and using it to produce acid. The longer sugar stays on your teeth, the higher the risk it will contribute to a cavity. Untreated decay might eventually lead to an infection that can only be addressed with a root canal. A good oral health routine will make sure your teeth stay healthy and intact. (Your little ones might have trouble brushing their back teeth; ask your children’s dentist in Lexington about dental sealants and other ways you can give their young smiles some added protection).
3. Less Risk for Heart Disease
Did you know that there may be a connection between your oral health and cardiovascular health? Several studies have shown that patients who suffer from gum disease have a higher risk of heart attacks and strokes. Some researchers believe this might be partially due to bacteria in the gums entering the bloodstream and causing inflammation in other parts of the body. In any case, the health of your mouth can potentially serve as a window for the health of the rest of your body; keeping your pearly whites clean just might help protect your heart.
4. Avoiding Lung Disease
Poor oral hygiene can lead to more bacteria in your mouth. If these bacteria are inhaled, there’s a chance they could infect the lungs. By preventing gum disease with good oral health habits, you’ll be able to breathe easier.
In general, if you don’t want to make a surprise visit to the emergency dentist in Lexington, you should take the time to examine your oral hygiene routine and see where you can make improvements; you might also want to schedule a dental checkup and cleaning if you haven’t had one in about six months. Not only will this help prevent potential health issues, but it will also let you preserve a dazzling smile for years to come!
About the Practice
At Dental Wellness in Lexington, our mission is to provide patients with quality, courteous, exceptional dental care. Our dentists have years of experience in helping patients maintain excellent oral hygiene. If you want to schedule a preventive checkup or have some questions about your oral hygiene routine, contact our Lexington practice by visiting our website or calling (859) 223-4644.