Tis the Season to Have Healthy Teeth and Gums

The holidays are a time of joy and laughter. But, there is one thing that can bring the spirit down: teeth with plaque on them! It’s important to take care of your teeth and gums so they don’t give you any trouble this time of year. If you’re not sure how to clean teeth properly, we’ve compiled some helpful tips in the article below. Don’t let tooth troubles ruin your holiday!

The Importance of Healthy Teeth and Gums

It’s no secret that healthy teeth and gums are important. Not only do they help you chew and speak properly, but they also play a role in your overall health. Studies have shown that people with gum disease are at a higher risk for heart disease, stroke, and other health problems. And with the holidays coming up, it’s important to take care of your teeth so they won’t cause you any issues.

Dental Health and Your Overall Health

There are a few ways that dental health and overall health are connected. First of all, if you have plaque and tartar buildup on your teeth, it can cause inflammation in your gums. This inflammation can spread throughout your body, leading to problems like heart disease and stroke. Additionally, gum disease has been linked to other health issues like diabetes and respiratory problems.

Common conditions that your oral health can contribute to include:

• Endocarditis. This infection of the inner lining of your heart chambers or valves (endocardium) typically occurs when bacteria or other germs from another part of your body, such as your mouth, spread through your bloodstream and attach to certain areas in your heart.
• Cardiovascular disease. Although the connection is not fully understood, some research suggests that heart disease, clogged arteries and stroke might be linked to the inflammation and infections that oral bacteria can cause.
• Pregnancy and birth complications. Periodontitis has been linked to premature birth and low birth weight.
• Pneumonia. Certain bacteria in your mouth can be pulled into your lungs, causing pneumonia and other respiratory diseases.

So, if you want to stay healthy this holiday season, it’s important to make sure your teeth are clean and healthy! The tips below will help you do just that.

Caring for Your Teeth and Gums

The Proper Way to Brush

It is recommended that you brush your teeth with toothpaste at least twice a day for two minutes each time. Even though this is the minimum amount of time you should spend brushing per session, it is still important that you brush your teeth properly. Always make sure you properly clean the surface of every tooth with small circular motions, and get the front, back, top, and underneath of all teeth. This technique will help you maintain healthy teeth and gums.

How to Floss

Flossing is just as important as brushing, if not more so. It helps remove plaque and bacteria from between your teeth and gums. To floss properly, use about 18 inches of floss and wrap it around your middle fingers. Gently guide the floss between your teeth using a back-and-forth motion. When the floss gets wrapped around a tooth, use a sawing motion to slide it back and forth against the side of each tooth. You should be flossing between every tooth for about three seconds each.

The Importance of Regular Dental Visits

Although you can do a lot at home to take care of your teeth, it is always advisable to make a trip to your dentist’s office for a cleaning. Dentists recommend that you get a scale and clean every six months. This will help prevent the build-up of plaque on your teeth and prevent any tooth decay from forming. You can also have your dentist look at your tongue during these visits, as it can often be a telltale sign of gum disease. The ADA explains that while there is no one-size-fits-all dental treatment, most patients need to visit the dentist at least twice a year. However, some patients may need more frequent dental visits.

Taking care of your teeth is important, especially during the holiday season! Make sure you brush and floss regularly, and visit your dentist for a check-up. By doing these things, you’ll keep your smile healthy and sparkling all winter long!

Make an Appointment with Stonebrook Family Dental

To keep your teeth and gums healthy all year long, make an appointment to visit Dr. Kevin Varley and our team at Stonebrook Family Dental. We’re proudly serving the Aurora, CO area and surrounding communities this holiday season. Call us today to make an appointment: (303)-872-7907.