Research shows that your teeth and gums can be a major indicator of your general health and help to flag potential problems. A healthy mouth means a healthy body and with this in mind, it is easy to see why dental checks and oral hygiene are so important.
Oral health & wellness and general health are related in several substantial ways:
- Poor oral health is significantly associated with major chronic diseases, including diabetes, cardiovascular disease, respiratory disease, stroke, dementia and more.
- Oral health issues and major diseases share common risk factors.
- General health problems may cause or worsen oral health conditions.
Studies have shown that cardiovascular diseases, diabetes and complications of diabetes, respiratory infections, stroke, and adverse pregnancy outcomes are significantly associated with tooth loss and periodontal disease. It is therefore important to achieve optimal oral health by protecting natural teeth from decay and periodontal disease and a strong focus on early detection and prevention.
This week marks National Diabetes Week and the team at SDAI felt it was an opportune time to get back to basics I and have outlined some simple oral health tips to help you achieve and maintain healthy teeth and overall health and wellness.
Oral health basics
Simple tips from SDAI for optimal oral health and wellness:
- Brush your teeth for at least two minutes, twice a day, and don’t forget your tongue.
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush with small head and flexible neck.
- Clean teeth systematically, holding toothbrush at gumline at a 45 degree angle.
- Don’t press too hard – too much pressure can damage gums and tooth enamel.
- Choose a toothpaste with fluoride and replace your toothbrush every three months.
- Floss at least once a day, treat it as important as brushing.
- Limit your sugar intake as it is the single biggest cause of tooth decay.
- Drink plenty of H20, fluoridated tap water is best.
- Choose teeth friendly foods such as cheese, nuts and vegetables.
- Avoid snacking and grazing.
- Wear a mouthguard when playing sport as dental injuries can cause pain and loss of teeth
- Don’t smoke as it contributes to gum disease and oral cancer
- Make sure you visit your dentist regularly, at least twice a year!
Regular check- ups with your dentist are vital. When was the last time you had a check- up? If you can’t recall when you last saw your dentist, then it has been too long! It is generally advised to visit your dentist every 6 months or prior if you have any concerns.
Looking for a premium boutique dental experience?
At Sydney Dental Aesthetics and Implants (SDAI) we pursue a personalised service, one that reflects our patients needs and best interests. Our goal is to provide a complete service for our valued patients.
If you prefer a personalised boutique service as offered by Dr Dean Licenblat at a highly awarded practice for your oral health needs, please contact us and we will arrange a suitable appointment for you to visit.
We look forward to meeting you
Book your appointment today, call 9233 3301.