Good Oral Hygiene: Facts You Need to Know

Most of us understand the importance good oral hygiene plays in a healthy smile, at least on a basic level. But a healthy smile goes beyond boosting self-confidence and aiding a positive personal image. Clean teeth and healthy gums impact your overall health, more than you may realize.

In order to fully understand the importance of good oral hygiene and its impact on your overall health, keep the following facts in mind.

 

Technique Matters

There is a lot of great technology out there meant to help you build good oral hygiene habits. But even the most expensive, tricked-out toothbrush won’t do much if your brushing technique is less than ideal. A less-expensive toothbrush used correctly is more effective than the most expensive toothbrush used incorrectly. So start with good technique to clear out bacteria that cause tooth decay, then add the tricked-out technology later.

 

Cavities are a Real Problem

Statistics continue to show that, no matter how much we claim to understand the importance of good oral hygiene, cavities still affect far too many people. According to America’s Toothfairy, more than forty percent of children have cavities by the time they reach kindergarten.

Of course, adults aren’t exempt from this. It’s been said that more than ninety-two percent of adults have had at least one cavity in their lifetime, and nearly twenty-five percent of those adults fail to get them properly treated.

 

Not Enough People Get the Care They Need

Too many people put off their annual dental visits until it’s too late. Some studies suggest that twelve percent of adults between twenty and sixty-four years of age have not seen their dentist at all in more than five years. In addition to that, only sixty percent of adults in that demographic have made it into their dentist’s office in the past year.

Ideally, you should visit us for regular checkups twice a year. This allows us to catch potential problems early before they lead to cavities, gum disease, or other issues. It’s far better to catch potential problems earlier than later when they will require a lot more work to correct.

 

Sugar and Other Carbs Cause Cavities

We’ve been told all our lives that if you eat too much sugar (without brushing your teeth), you’ll get a lot of cavities. While this is true, it’s important to know that other carbs can also cause cavities. Carbs of any kind start the decaying process because bacteria just love them! Potatoes, bread, rice, fruits, and starchy vegetables leave particles on your teeth that encourage cavities to develop in your teeth.

The moral of this part of the good oral hygiene story is always brush your teeth no less than twice a day!

 

Fluoride is Important for Good Oral Hygiene

Fluoride has been a major part of good oral hygiene for decades. It occurs naturally in many water sources, and many cities add it to the public water supply. It helps to re-mineralize your teeth. Once it was introduced to toothpaste and mouthwashes, there was a significant drop in the number of cavities people developed.

 

Poor Health Conditions are Related to Poor Oral Hygiene

There is a lot of research that clearly shows how poor oral hygiene leads to significant health problems. Right now, studies suggest that gum disease and other oral hygiene problems can lead to cardiovascular disease, diabetes, premature births, and more.

 

Your Oral Hygiene, Good or Bad?

The fact is your oral hygiene, good or bad, impacts the rest of your life in a good or bad way. Whether maintaining a bright, beautiful smile or correcting serious dental problems, it’s important to practice good oral hygiene at home every day and get regular professional care twice a year. Don’t let gum disease and cavities develop in your mouth. Left untreated or neglected, cavities and gum disease will cause more significant health problems.

Keep cavities, gum disease, and poor health at bay. For a lifetime of healthy smiles and fewer health problems, practice good oral hygiene every day and visit us here at Davis Dental twice a year. Call Davis Dental at (307) 634-3488 to schedule your dental checkup today.

 

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Quality Dental Care for Your Whole Family

3249 Sparks Road

Cheyenne, WY 82001

(307) 634-3488

Open Monday through Thursday from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm