More than a Sparkling Smile!

Do you know that oral health can affect your overall health? Bad oral care can contribute to diabetes and heart disease. Bacteria is present in your mouth, teeth and gums. Pathogenic ones can be fought off by the body’s immune system, if you are healthy and practice good oral care. Without oral hygiene, pathogenic bacteria can cause infection, leading to severe gum diseases and tooth decay. Inflamed gums affect supporting bones and weaken teeth, and bacteria in plaque can travel down to lungs and affect the respiratory system. Diabetics are more susceptible to gum diseases; and there is indication that clogged arteries may be connected with harmful oral bacteria.

Practice healthy habits to avoid increasing health risks:

•  Brush and floss twice daily, and use anti-microbial rinse or irrigator: This is essential to control oral bacteria. Simply cleaning the mouth by spraying water through irrigators can rinse your mouth, but not remove plaque.

•  Change toothbrushes frequently: Do this once every 3 to 4 months or when the bristles are frayed. High-tech electronic toothbrushes are safe to use, and are even better than hand-held brushes.

•  Use fluoride toothpaste. For healthy teeth, but not advisable for children under 6 years of age.

•  Make regular visits to a dentist: A dentist in Toledo, OH can clean up accumulated plaque in teeth and gums, and help you spot potential problems. Studies show that plaque-causing bacteria can adversely affect pregnant women.

•  Eat a healthy diet: Healthy teeth are maintained by a good diet; restrict your in-between snacks.

•  Avoid smoking: Tobacco is harmful for gums, tissues and bones supporting the teeth. It can also cause oral cancer.

Bacteria-free mouth, teeth and gums are guaranteed by regular visits to Whittaker Family Dental Clinic.
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