The Importance Of Dental Hygiene

The Importance Of Dental Hygiene

There are many reasons why good dental hygiene is so important. People who don’t like what they see when it comes to their teeth are usually more reserved and much more self-conscious when it comes to smiling, talking and interacting with others. So, having a healthy smile goes a long way in improving our confidence and self-esteem.

Additionally, taking great care of your teeth is essential in preventing serious dental problems. Regularly brushing and flossing your teeth will stop plaque and tartar from forming, which can lead to more serious issues such as tooth decay, gingivitis and gum disease. Likewise, by removing leftover food particles in your mouth, you’ll be preventing bacteria from growing around the gums, between the teeth and on the tongue, which can cause bad breath. Routine dental checkups are also important because they allow dentists to spot potential problems, such as infections, enamel erosion and oral cancer.

Your Mouth Can Affect Your Body

Did you know that poor dental hygiene could severely impact your overall health? Bacteria from your teeth and gums can travel throughout your body and cause a variety of problems. These include:

  • Heart disease
  • Respiratory infections
  • Pregnancy complications
  • Cancer
  • Kidney disease
  • Erectile dysfunction
  • Stroke
  • Diabetes
  • Ulcers
  • Pneumonia

Good Dental Hygiene Practices

Fortunately, taking good care of your teeth isn’t all that complicated, and it’ll leave you smiling for years to come. To keep your mouth happy and healthy, you’ll need to:

  • Brush your teeth for two minutes, twice a day.
  • Floss every day in order to clean those hard-to-reach areas in between your teeth.
  • Eat right as foods high in sugars and starches cause tooth decay.
  • Avoid tobacco since it stains your teeth, causes bad breath and increases the risk of oral cancer.
  • Regularly visit your dentist.

This last point is extremely important. A certified professional—like the dentists at Gateway Dentistry Group in Grande Prairie—will be your biggest ally in maintaining good oral health. In addition to cleaning and polishing your teeth, dental hygienists will check your teeth, gums, mouth, throat and neck for any potential signs of trouble. This will allow them to treat any problems before they become much more serious and costly.

We’re Dedicated To Excellence

Here at Gateway Dentistry Group, your dental health is our priority. That’s why we offer all our patients a full range of quality and reliable dentistry services. Contact us today for more information or to schedule an appointment.