Professional dentista are often surprised by the many instances in which people dissociate their oral health from their overall health. But as simple and basic as this might sound, our mouth is part of our body – they are intrinsically connected, and what happens in one organ, will probably manifest or affect another part of our body. What this means, in a nutshell, is that, if you don’t take care of your dental hygiene, sooner rather than later, you’ll end up at the emergency dentist. NYC has plenty of good ones, but you really want to avoid this if you can! As much a dentist would love to see you, it would be best that it’s not under adverse circumstances like you’re in excruciating pain. Take notes on the following information and top tips to keep your oral care running regularly and smoothly.
Why is it important to maintain oral health?
Your mouth is a complex system, which is essential for your overall health. Your teeth help you to chew and digest food, and your gums help to keep your teeth in place. Your mouth also contains a large amount of bacteria, which can help to keep your mouth healthy if it is kept in balance. However, if these bacteria grow out of control, they can lead to gum disease, tooth decay and infections in other parts of your body, carried through the bloodstream.
There are a number of things you can do to keep your oral health in good condition. Some of these include:
- Brush your teeth twice a day for two minutes. When brushing your teeth, use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste.
- Floss your teeth once a day. Flossing helps to remove plaque and food particles from between your teeth.
- See your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings. Your regular dentist can remove plaque and tartar buildup, and they can also check for signs of cavities and gum disease. (Just this alone can reduce the risk of having to see an emergency dentist. NYC’s best dentists offer a range of services, including emergency treatments, but it’s best to avoid the need for that altogether.)
- Avoid sugary foods and drinks. Sugary foods and drinks can cause cavities. If you do eat sugary foods or drinks, be sure to brush your teeth as soon as possible afterwards.
- Stay hydrated. Drinking water helps to keep your mouth moist and can help to wash away food particles and bacteria.
- Eat a healthy diet. A good, balanced diet can help to keep your teeth and gums strong and healthy.
- Quit smoking or limit tobacco intake. Smoking can damage your teeth and gums. If you smoke, quitting is the best thing you can do for your oral health.
By following these tips you can help to keep your oral health in good shape. If you are concerned about any issues that arise and cause pain, be sure to see an emergency dentist. NYC residents have no excuse to ignore regular checkups and cleaning, as there are many high quality dentists in the city that can help keep your teeth looking and feeling great!
A professional can spot potential problems early on, provide preventive care and treat existing conditions. The earlier a problem is detected, the easier it is to treat or manage – so the moral of the story is… see your dentist regularly!
