Falling behind on your flossing? Pick up some motivation!
Tend to think of your teeth as nothing more than a means to an end? While their chewing capabilities are important, our teeth are so much more than sets of chompers. Strong, healthy teeth are a vital part of your life – today, and years into the future. In order to learn a few of the things that your teeth have been accomplishing for you – and why their health should be one of your concerns – simply read on.
Why Your Oral Health Matters
We know that brushing and flossing aren’t the most thrilling moments of your day. If you have some motivation to make that cleaning happen, you’re much more likely to tend to your teeth. Considering the larger reasons behind oral hygiene can help make that happen. We’ve detailed a few of the most important below.
Confidence
Confidence is king. The way you feel about yourself dictates the way you lead your life. From your career, to your relationships, to your personal satisfaction and happiness, confidence plays an intrinsic role. And your smile is a large part of what determines that confidence level. You feel better prepared for anything facing you when you have a smile that makes you proud in place, and others notice that and respond positively. Keeping your teeth healthy helps ensure that your smile is beautiful, If there are changes you’d like to make to your natural smile, cosmetic dentistry will help you achieve your ideal grin.
Personal Image
A 2008 survey by Crest and the American Dental Association found respondents stating that they viewed the smile as the most important factor in determining someone’s attractiveness. It’s your teeth that help determine the first impressions that others form when they meet you. What are your teeth saying about you? If they’re healthy, they show that you take care of yourself. They show that you’re a strong, capable person. And help others gain an understanding of exactly who you are.
Systemic Health
Oral health (specifically, periodontal health) has been linked to other systemic health issues. When your oral health suffers and your gums become inflamed, you’re more likely to see complications with other concerns, including diabetes, heart disease, stroke, and even some kinds of cancer. While researchesr are not yet completely sure of why this is, there are speculations that the increased bacteria present in the mouth during gingivitis and periodontitis could enter the bloodstream and travel to other parts of the body, where they contribute to arterial blockage. Avoid these complications by keeping your teeth and gums in great shape.
Lifelong Capability
Having strong, healthy teeth can actually affect your quality of life – and even your mental prowess. One study showed that elderly patients able to bite into an apple were less likely to develop cognitive impairments. While we’re not sure exactly why this is, it’s possible to make some guesses. When you have control of your teeth and you’re able to eat solid food, speak normally, and even emote comfortably, you’re more likely to feel like yourself. Taking care of your teeth today will help them last – even at an advanced age.
Scheduling Your Next Dental Exam in Oakland
While it’s necessary for you to engage in oral hygiene at home to build healthy teeth, you also need to schedule regular dental exams. While the “regular” interval is different for different patients, the standard recommendation is every six months. You may need to visit more often if you fall into a higher-risk category for cavities or periodontal disease. If you’re not sure when you should next be visiting, simply give us a call. It’s never too early to schedule your next exam!