Remember how your parents nagged you about brushing and flossing your teeth growing up? Especially after a sugary snack or a meal and after you went to bed? And those trips to the dentist that you probably dreaded? Well, it turns out that monitoring your oral health was to ensure a lifetime of healthy teeth and gums.
The Importance of Oral Health Care & Seeking the Right Treatment
The statistics when it comes to Los Angeles County are concerning. According to one recent report, over 40% of adults in the area have removed a permanent tooth due to dental issues. Plus, many individuals in the area are not getting the necessary preventive dental care or regular check-ups, leading to further deterioration of oral health.
Considering these worrying numbers, it is essential to prioritize your oral health for a better quality of life. If you are experiencing teeth irregularities, such as crooked teeth, misaligned teeth, bite problems, or jaw pain, visit an orthodontist to get the proper treatment. An orthodontic specialist can provide you with the thorough evaluation and treatment options needed to improve your oral health and restore your smile.
Orthodontist treatments have become popular over the years and can be easily accessible in all neighborhoods of Los Angeles County. However, finding the right orthodontist can make all the difference in achieving a beautiful, healthy smile.
If you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind treatment experience, visit the best orthodontic clinic in Sherman Oak for personalized care and exceptional results. Your orthodontist will provide customized treatment plans and ensure that you are comfortable and receive the highest quality of care.
Here are six reasons to get serious about your oral health and make it a priority:
Strengthens Your Teeth
While your teeth are covered with a hard outer layer of enamel, it is not indestructible. Regular wear and tear and exposure to bacteria and food particles can wear it down over time.
Oral health care helps to strengthen your teeth and keep them healthy. And, when your teeth are healthy, it is easier to chew food, speak clearly, and maintain a radiant smile. You can ensure the health of your teeth and gums by brushing for 2 minutes twice a day, flossing daily, and eating a balanced diet.
If you’re not diligent about taking care of your oral health, the natural minerals and proteins that keep them strong can begin to break down over time. It will be much harder for your teeth to withstand the everyday wear and tear and eventually more expensive (and painful) to restore.
Prevents Tooth Decay and Cavities
Tooth decay is caused by the mouth bacteria that convert sugar into acid that erodes tooth enamel. Cavities form when these acids have time to work on the enamel and create tiny holes in your teeth, eventually causing tooth loss.
You can minimize your risk of tooth decay and cavities by maintaining good oral hygiene practices and limiting sugary snacks and drinks. Sugar combines with bacteria in our mouths to produce plaque, which can eventually become a cavity if not removed.
Make sure to use ADA-approved toothpaste that contains fluoride, a mineral that makes your teeth more resistant to acid and prevents cavities from forming in the first place. Additionally, the ingredients in fluoride toothpaste repair the enamel that has already been damaged and protect your teeth from further decay.
Reduces the Risk Of Gum Disease
Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is an infection of the gums that can cause tooth loss, receding gums, and bone degeneration if left unchecked.
Unfortunately, nearly half of all adults in the U.S. suffer from gum disease, which is largely preventable by regular oral health care.
When brushing, pay extra attention to the areas between teeth and gums. A good brushing routine involves circular motions along the gum line and teeth and gentle scrubbing of the front and back surfaces of teeth.
Prevents Bad Breath
Bad breath, medically known as halitosis, can be a distressing and embarrassing problem. It is caused when the bacteria in the mouth break down proteins into sulfur compounds, giving off an unpleasant smell. Bad breath can be made worse by certain foods like onions, garlic, and other unhealthy lifestyle habits. The odor won’t go away until the bacteria are removed from the mouth.
Good oral hygiene is essential for keeping your mouth free of odors and maintaining fresh breath. Besides routine brushing and flossing, drink water to keep the mouth hydrated and wash away any bacteria that can cause bad breath. You can also follow expert tips to curb bad breath and keep your smile sparkling and smelling great.
Reduces the Risk of Cardiovascular Disease
Several studies have suggested that poor oral health and gum disease can increase the risk of stroke, heart attack, and other cardiovascular diseases. This is because bacteria found in plaque and tartar can travel to other parts of the body, enter the bloodstream, and cause inflammation. When inflammation persists, it causes arteries to narrow and become blocked, leading to a heart attack or stroke.
Therefore, it is crucial to look after your oral health and keep your mouth clean to keep oral bacteria levels low and reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.
Enhances Your Appearance
Your oral health has a significant impact on your appearance. You may feel self-conscious when smiling or speaking in public if you have broken, discolored, or missing teeth.
Proper oral hygiene can help you achieve a brighter, healthier smile. Not only is it pleasing to the eye, but a healthy set of pearly whites can be incredibly helpful in making an impressive first impression.
People will be more likely to take you seriously, enjoy spending time with you, and remember your name. It will also help boost self-confidence in everyday life and social situations, whether in the workplace or a more casual environment.
Conclusion:
Your oral health is a reflection of your overall health. Not only will good oral hygiene help you maintain strong teeth and gums, but it can also help reduce the risk of severe heart-related diseases. Proper oral care can also prevent tooth decay and cavities, which could lead to tooth loss and gum problems. Having a beautiful smile will boost your confidence and make you more attractive to others. So, invest in taking good care of your oral health today!