Why dental hygiene is crucial for long-term health        

Researchers are discovering poor dental hygiene is connected with underlying health diseases. Some studies suggest the following health concerns may be related to poor dental hygiene:

         
• Strokes
         
• Diabetes
         
• Alzheimer’s
         
• Endocarditis
         
• Heart disease
         
• Infective Endocarditis
         
• Premature birth and low birth weight
       

One study showed gum disease is linked to 20 to 30 different types of bacteria and cause damage to tiny blood vessels in the brain that lead to strokes and heart disease.

Brushing and Flossing      

Invest in your overall health with regular brushing, flossing, and dental checkups.

Your mouth is the gateway for bacteria to enter, and when this bacteria is enabled to grow or is aspirated into the lungs, serious health issues can result. For better oral care and dental hygiene Birmingham specialists at Whole Dental Wellness recommend the following tips:

     
• Brush your teeth and gums twice a day - However, if you start your day with citrusy drinks, wait for 30 to 60 minutes to brush your teeth. Waiting the allotted time enables the enamel on your teeth not to wear down.
     
• Change your toothbrush every two to three months - Use a soft-bristled brush and apply gentle pressure to your gum line. Use circle motions and hold your brush at a 45-degree angle for optimal cleaning.
     
• Mouthwash for the win - Adding an antimicrobial mouthwash fights plaque from forming and kills oral bacteria. Be sure to rinse twice a day for 30 seconds at a time.
     
• Teeth-whitening foods, say what? - Keep those pearly whites in check by adding coarse, fibrous foods to your daily meals, such as apples, celery, carrots, and lettuce. Crunchy foods stimulate saliva production and help to remove plaque from your teeth.
     
• Remember to floss - Keep your gums healthy with proper flossing techniques. Flossing should only take about one minute, two times a day. Ask one of our Birmingham dentists to show you how to floss properly.
   

Causes of dental andoral health issues        

Another factor causing oral health issues is the frequent snacking of sugary foods and drinks. A diet high in sugar produces an acid-type of bacteria that erodes tooth enamel.  When plaque forms at the base of your teeth, inflammation occurs and causes gingivitis. As gum disease progresses, it becomes periodontitis.

Other factors contributing to oral health issues include:

         
• Smoking
         
• Diabetes
         
• Family history 
         
• Hormonal changes
         
• Acid reflux or heartburn
       

How to keep your teeth and gums healthy        

Good dental hygiene begins and ends with you.       

Our Birmingham dental hygienists and dentists can teach you how to care for your teeth and gums, but it is up to you to continue your dental care on a daily basis. Children will often model what their parents do, so creating a proactive dental routine in the mornings and evenings will set your child up for oral health success. Remember, routine dental checkups are essential in maintaining proper dental hygiene. If you have been treated for periodontitis, our dental team will schedule you for regular periodontal maintenance so inflammation and infection can be kept at bay.

The Takeaway        

Your overall health is dependent on the proper care of your teeth and gums.

Take the time to brush your teeth twice a day. Find a toothbrush that fits your mouth comfortably and use fluoride toothpaste. An electric toothbrush is an excellent oral hygiene option for reducing plaque and gingivitis.

Add crunchy and fibrous foods that help clean and rid your mouth of harmful bacteria and brighten your smile. Floss! It may be hard to believe, but that thin string of dental floss can save your life by preventing bacteria from getting into your bloodstream and causing severe health conditions.

LASER POCKET DISINFECTION      

At Whole Dental Wellness we pride ourselves on staying current with the latest technologies and providing the highest level of quality care to each and every patient. In the spirit of prevention, we highly recommend Laser Pocket Disinfection (LPD).

LPD is a dental laser procedure performed in addition/prior to dental cleanings. The purpose of the procedure is to eliminate harmful bacteria living in “pockets” between the gums and teeth - bacteria a standard cleaning can’t reach. When left untreated, these harmful bacteria cause the infection commonly known as gum disease. LPD targets diseased tissue and gets rid of the bacteria and toxins they produce. The laser cleaning is sufficient to eliminate the bacteria entirely and provide you with your healthiest gums. Added BONUS: At the same time LPD is done, Biostimulation is occurring. Biostimulation is a great added benefit of the procedure as it increases circulation, collagen formation, osteoblastic activity (bone building cells), and fibroblastic activity (connective tissue building cells). It also speeds, enhances, and promotes healing. The benefits of eliminating gingivitis and periodontitis can extend beyond restoring your healthy teeth and gums and help YOU be a healthier YOU! We recommend all of our adult patients (16 years and older) have LPD done in conjunction with their cleaning appointments. Ask your Dental Hygienist about LPD at your next dental cleaning appointment!

Schedule your dental hygiene consultation with Whole Dental Wellness today      

Your overall health and wellness begin with healthy teeth and gums.

Let our specialist-led dental team show you how to keep you and your family healthy with proper dental hygiene approaches. Avoid costly dental procedures with good oral hygiene habits. Call for your dental hygiene consultation. Our office proudly serves Birmingham and the Detroit metro area.