Happy Teeth, Happy Life: Why your teeth are so important

Your smile is one of the first things other people notice about you. A bright, white smile can be a huge confidence booster. In contrast, discoloration, chipping, or missing teeth can make you feel self-conscious. Besides, your oral health is the foundation that supports a healthy body. Oral health can impact your overall health in a number of ways. Dental problems like gum disease, which is caused by plaque and tartar buildup, can lead to serious illnesses. Our teeth play an important role in chewing and breaking down your food so that it can be digested easily. Helping you chew your food properly can lead to better digestion, fewer digestive problems, fewer heartburn symptoms, and better weight management. So, it is immensely important to maintain the health of our teeth and gums to promote a healthy body and a healthy life.

What Are The Benefits of Good Oral Health?

Good oral health means you have healthy teeth, gums, and mouth. It also means you don’t have any chronic issues like tooth decay or gum disease. Having good oral health means you look and feel good, too.

How Bad Is Oral Disease?

When left untreated, oral disease can progress and cause major damage to your oral health. Your mouth is the gateway to your entire body, so any bacteria or infection that develops in your mouth can quickly spread to the rest of your body, leading to serious illnesses and complications. The bacteria in our mouth can affect our body in numerous ways, from causing cavities and gum disease to causing issues with our overall health.

• Heart Disease

Studies have shown that gum disease and heart disease are closely related. In fact, people with gum disease are almost twice as likely to suffer from heart disease. When gum disease causes inflammation in the mouth, it can increase the amount of inflammation that is found in the blood vessels. This can cause the blood vessels to become narrower, making the heart work much harder to pump blood.

• Diabetes

People with diabetes are at a higher risk of developing gum disease, and gum disease can make it more difficult for diabetes patients to control their blood sugar. Gum disease causes inflammation in the body, resulting in high blood sugar. This can cause diabetes to worsen.

• Respiratory Issues

Bad oral hygiene can lead to a number of respiratory issues. Bacteria from the mouth can get into the lungs when the teeth aren’t cleaned properly. This can lead to pneumonia, bronchitis, and breathing issues.

• Alzheimer’s Disease

Alzheimer’s is a neurological condition that progressively worsens over time. Many studies have shown that gum disease may be yet another risk factor for this terrible disease.

How Can You Maintain Good Oral Health?

• Practicing great oral hygiene can prevent oral disease and help maintain good oral health. 
• Brush your teeth twice a day for about two minutes each time. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste.
• Floss at least once a day. Flossing removes plaque from between your teeth and under your gums.
• Visit your Dentist in Livermore, CA at least twice a year for checkups and cleanings.
• You can further protect your smile by rinsing with an antiseptic mouthwash.

Alta Vista Dental provides all the dental services with the expertise of experienced dentists. Call at 925-292-1459 and book your appointment to receive a complete oral checkup.