What is Dental Health?
We've all heard the surveys that ask the question, "What's the first thing you notice about people?" The number one answer always seems to be, "Their smile" But how true do you suppose this is? Is your smile really the first thing people notice about you? The truth is that it doesn't really matter if it's the first, or the second, or even the fifth thing people notice. The fact is that everyone notices your smile. Not everyone will see your shoes. Not everyone will notice what you're wearing. Chances are people won't notice your eye color, and many won't even remember the color of your hair after the first time they've met you. But everyone always remembers a pleasant smile. And that's only one of the reasons why oral health is so important. According to the Mayo Clinic, there is an 'intimate connection between oral health and overall health.' The good news is that oral health depends on you. Good oral health often comes down to just a few things: regular brushing, regular flossing, and regular checkups.
Brushing
You know how to brush your teeth. You've been doing it all your life. But are you doing it enough? And are you even doing it correctly? Top dentists in New Jersey recommend brushing two to three times every day to remove plaque that can collect on teeth after eating. It's best to use a soft-bristled toothbrush for gentle care of gums. Fluoride toothpaste is recommended by most family dentists, and teeth should be brushed in a gentle back-and-forth action.
Flossing
Flossing and brushing together are much more effective than brushing alone. Sure, sometimes it can be tough to get into a flossing routine, but once you start, you can't stop! Flossing your teeth leaves them feeling much cleaner than simply brushing. New Jersey dentists recommend flossing your teeth at least as many times per day as you brush. Wrap about 18 inches of floss between each of your middle fingers, and hold the floss firmly between the thumb and forefinger of each hand. Then, gently glide the floss between teeth to draw out food particles.
Mouthwash
To mouthwash or not to mouthwash? That is the question many people have for their dentists. The answer is simple. To mouthwash! Mouthwash's benefits are many, and they don't just involve keeping your breath fresh (although that's an important one!). Mouthwash is an antiseptic. It helps to protect your mouth from oral bacteria that can cause gum disease and other health problems. Recent studies suggest that oral bacteria, because it can be a contributing factor in lowering immunity, may play a role in diseases such as diabetes and even HIV/AIDS. Additionally, mouthwash helps to prevent dry mouth, which also can cause bacteria buildup. The simplest way to assure you're using your mouthwash at least twice a day is to gargle every time you brush.
Dental visits
Regular dental checkups are a vital part of your oral health. Your dentist can see things you can't, no matter how diligent you are in your oral health routine. Choose a licensed family dentist in New Jersey whose dental office is close to home. Be sure you schedule regular dental checkups for every member of your family. Additionally, find a good kids' dentist in your area, as some dental offices can be more kid-friendly than others. Finally, if anyone in your family is experiencing problems with their teeth, make sure you schedule an appointment as soon as possible. Symptoms such as sensitivity of gums, red or swollen gums, and bleeding gums are all signs of gum disease that require swift attention from a qualified dentist.
Everybody loves a clean, bright smile. Of course, your smile isn't the only reason to take good care of your teeth and gums. Good oral health is vital to overall health. According to the website of the Mayo Clinic, oral health may be a contributing factor in various diseases, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, osteoporosis, Alzheimer's disease, and others. Being good to yourself means being good to your teeth. So, do your body and your health a favor. Maintain a good dental routine, and the health of the rest of your body will begin to fall into place naturally.
Brushing
You know how to brush your teeth. You've been doing it all your life. But are you doing it enough? And are you even doing it correctly? Top dentists in New Jersey recommend brushing two to three times every day to remove plaque that can collect on teeth after eating. It's best to use a soft-bristled toothbrush for gentle care of gums. Fluoride toothpaste is recommended by most family dentists, and teeth should be brushed in a gentle back-and-forth action.
Flossing
Flossing and brushing together are much more effective than brushing alone. Sure, sometimes it can be tough to get into a flossing routine, but once you start, you can't stop! Flossing your teeth leaves them feeling much cleaner than simply brushing. New Jersey dentists recommend flossing your teeth at least as many times per day as you brush. Wrap about 18 inches of floss between each of your middle fingers, and hold the floss firmly between the thumb and forefinger of each hand. Then, gently glide the floss between teeth to draw out food particles.
Mouthwash
To mouthwash or not to mouthwash? That is the question many people have for their dentists. The answer is simple. To mouthwash! Mouthwash's benefits are many, and they don't just involve keeping your breath fresh (although that's an important one!). Mouthwash is an antiseptic. It helps to protect your mouth from oral bacteria that can cause gum disease and other health problems. Recent studies suggest that oral bacteria, because it can be a contributing factor in lowering immunity, may play a role in diseases such as diabetes and even HIV/AIDS. Additionally, mouthwash helps to prevent dry mouth, which also can cause bacteria buildup. The simplest way to assure you're using your mouthwash at least twice a day is to gargle every time you brush.
Dental visits
Regular dental checkups are a vital part of your oral health. Your dentist can see things you can't, no matter how diligent you are in your oral health routine. Choose a licensed family dentist in New Jersey whose dental office is close to home. Be sure you schedule regular dental checkups for every member of your family. Additionally, find a good kids' dentist in your area, as some dental offices can be more kid-friendly than others. Finally, if anyone in your family is experiencing problems with their teeth, make sure you schedule an appointment as soon as possible. Symptoms such as sensitivity of gums, red or swollen gums, and bleeding gums are all signs of gum disease that require swift attention from a qualified dentist.
Everybody loves a clean, bright smile. Of course, your smile isn't the only reason to take good care of your teeth and gums. Good oral health is vital to overall health. According to the website of the Mayo Clinic, oral health may be a contributing factor in various diseases, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, osteoporosis, Alzheimer's disease, and others. Being good to yourself means being good to your teeth. So, do your body and your health a favor. Maintain a good dental routine, and the health of the rest of your body will begin to fall into place naturally.