Dental health is an issue that everyone must deal with each day. Good dental health involves correct oral hygiene as well as regular visits to a dentist for checkups, cleanings and treatments. Some individuals are not aware of how the teeth and gums affect other parts of the body and life in general. Dental health is very important for a number of reasons.
Prevent Pain and Tooth Loss
The main reason dental health is important is that it will prevent pain and tooth loss. If the teeth and gums are not cared for properly, then problems will occur. The gums could start to bleed regularly. Teeth will slowly decay and become brittle. This can result in broken or chipped teeth and eventually tooth loss. Brushing, visiting a dentist regularly and taking care of the gums will allow the teeth to last for a very long time.
Infections and Bacteria
Periodontal diseases and infections can actually have negative health effects on the body that go beyond the teeth and gums. The same bacterial infections that cause the gums to swell and bleed can get into the blood stream. The bacterial infection causes the inflammation of the blood vessels in different parts of the body. This inflammation can increase the risk of a heart attack or stroke. Proper periodontal treatment for problems and good oral hygiene can help to reduce the effects of bacterial infections or prevent them altogether.
Diet and Nutrition
Dental health is very important for many people because it directly affects diet and nutrition. Individuals who are missing teeth, who experience pain or who have brittle teeth are more likely to start avoiding certain foods. This includes fruits and vegetables that tend to have a crisp texture. Eating can actually become so painful or inconvenient that a person resorts to soft processed foods only. This can increase the chance of developing periodontal diseases as well as other conditions like vitamin deficiencies, high blood pressure or high cholesterol.
Self-Esteem
Poor dental health can negatively affect self-esteem. This can result in depression, anxiety and isolation because a person avoids social situations. Missing teeth, odors due to gum disease and discolored teeth all make a person self-conscious. Good dental health helps to give children, teenagers and adults a better self-image and sense of self-esteem.
Dental health is something that should never be ignored. It is important to brush and floss at least twice every day. Anyone who starts to experience tooth or gum pain will want to visit a professional for an inspection. Taking small steps each day will ensure the teeth and gums remain healthy for a long time.