Oral health, physical, and mental health are often seen as separate matters. However, at the Family Dental Clinic, as part of our duty of care to our patients, we’re here to highlight the significant connection between our oral health and overall well-being.
Why Good Oral Health Matters
Our oral health plays a considerable role in our overall physical and mental health. Neglecting your oral health can lead to harmful bacteria in the mouth finding its way into the bloodstream, which can also affect various parts of the body. Gum disease for instance, caused by harmful bacteria, has been associated with severe heart health problems, diabetes, respiratory issues, and even low birth weight in babies of pregnant mothers with gum problems. Even minor dental issues like tooth decay can be quite bothersome… but left untreated can result in a loss of appetite, decreased focus, or in some cases, depression.
5 FDC Tips for Maintaining Good Oral Health
Daily Oral Care
A consistent daily oral care routine is your first line of defence against oral health issues. It’s as easy as 1-2-3: brushing, flossing, and using mouthwash. Brush your teeth twice a day with a toothpaste suitable for your teeth to remove plaque and food particles, floss once a day to clean between your teeth where a toothbrush can’t reach (remember to be gentle here) and finish with a mouthwash to kill any remaining bacteria. It’s simple, yet effective!
Regular Dental Check-Ups
Don’t underestimate the power of regular check-ups. At our family dental practice, they’re not just a quick glance at your teeth, but a comprehensive assessment of your oral health. Even when you don’t experience any discomfort our dentists and therapists can detect problems that might be in their early stages or hidden from plain sight. This early detection allows us to intervene promptly, preventing these issues from becoming more serious or causing other health implications.
Dental Hygiene Appointments
Your dental hygienist appointment provides a thorough deep clean of your teeth and gums. The sessions aim to remove plaque and tartar that regular home care might miss, curbing the risk of inflammation and infection that can lead to gum problems. Another valuable part of a hygiene visit is the educational aspect. Our team can tailor their advice to the individual and specific needs of our patients.
Hydration
Drinking plenty of water helps maintain the natural balance of your mouth’s saliva, which is crucial in breaking down food and neutralising acids produced by bacteria. Additionally, a well-hydrated mouth aids in washing away harmful bacteria, lowering the risk of tooth decay.
A Healthy Diet
Your diet plays a significant role in your oral health. A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins provides the essential nutrients needed for strong teeth and gums. Calcium-rich foods like dairy products, leafy greens, and almonds are great for maintaining tooth enamel, whilst vitamin C, found in citrus fruits and broccoli, supports healthy gums.
We’re sure that we won’t be the first dentists to tell you this but try to limit your sugary snack and drink intake. Excessive consumption is a well-known contribution to tooth decay, gum disease and a host of other problems!
Stress Management:
Stress can not only directly affect your mental health but can have a significant impact on your oral health. Stress can cause worsening of gum condition, unintentional teeth grinding, jaw clenching, cheek biting and an overall neglect of your regular oral care routine. These behaviours, of which we’re usually unaware of, can lead to various issues such as worn-down teeth, jaw pain and injuries to your mouth. Practicing mindfulness and self-awareness is a great way to reduce these behaviours and maintain better oral health and wellbeing.
Good oral health is not just about a beautiful smile, it’s intrinsically connected to our overall physical and mental well-being. By just following these simple practices you’ll be contributing to a happier, healthier you.
Contact our Chichester dental clinic today by calling 01243 771171 to enquire about our dental services.