Healthy Teeth for a Overall Health

Keeping your teeth beautiful is just as important for your teeth and gums as it is for overall health. According to Xceptional Dental, good oral hygiene habits keep both your doctor and dental visits to a minimum giving you more time to enjoy life.

The Overall Health and Oral Connection is Real

Your overall and oral health is connected. In fact, studies indicate that people with heart disease are twice as likely to suffer from gum disease as well. Your dentist in San Diego explains that it could be related to plaque and bacteria entering your bloodstream through your gums.

The Problem with Gum Disease

There are two types of gum disease, gingivitis and periodontal disease. Gingivitis is curable, while periodontitis is not. If your gum disease has progressed to the point of periodontitis it can be controlled, but not cured. Thankfully, with good oral hygiene, including regular dental checkups and professional cleanings you will not have to worry about gum disease progression.

Good Oral Hygiene Habits

If you are unsure about your oral hygiene habits, schedule an appointment with Dr. Janette Larsen from Xceptional Dental. You are never too old to find out if you are brushing and flossing the right way.

Brushing

Did you know that you should brush your teeth for two minutes twice a day? According to your San Diego dentist, brushing for at least two minutes removes all bacteria, food particles, and debris. If you are not good at keeping up, set a timer or play a song while you brush.

Flossing

Flossing your teeth is imperative as you are reaching the areas in your teeth that your toothbrush can’t get to. When you floss, you are doing your teeth and gums a favor. Debris caught between your teeth will lead to plaque. Xceptional dental explains that plaque causes tooth decay and will eat away at your gum line.

Bacterial Mouth Washes

Using a bacterial mouthwash after you brush and floss is one of the best ways to prevent gingivitis and the more serious periodontal disease. Use an antibacterial rinse with fluoride and you will get double the protection for overall health.

A Healthy Diet for Overall Health

Everyone knows a good diet keeps your body fit and healthy. However, a good diet that is rich in dairy products and fruits and vegetables is also great for your teeth and gums. Enjoy lots of veggies, but keep citrus to a minimum or enjoy as part of a meal as citrus fruits contain enamel-damaging acid.

Regular Dental Checkups

Everyone knows that twice-yearly dental exams, including a comprehensive checkup with a cancer screening, help teeth, gums, and overall health. Schedule an appointment with your dentist in San Diego and don’t forget to ask Dr. Larsen to check your old restorations as well as you can still get cavities in a filled tooth.

If you would like to learn more about teeth and gums and overall health, or just want to schedule a checkup, call and talk to a team member from Xceptional Dental today.