Dental health goes far beyond brushing and flossing your teeth. Your commitment to your dental hygiene can have far-reaching impacts that you may not have considered. While brushing and flossing your teeth is an excellent place to start, think about what better dental health can mean for you and your overall health.
Confidence in Your Smile
A smile is often the first impression you will make on someone else, whether in passing, on a date, or at a job interview. If you’re insecure with your teeth, you may be uncomfortable sharing your smile with others, and your confidence as a whole can take a hit. If this sounds like you, meeting with a dental professional and discussing your options for improved dental health can be a life-changing experience.
Improved Quality of Life
If left untreated, crooked or missing teeth can cause problems far beyond cosmetic. Issues with speech or trouble chewing food are often unintended consequences of poor dental health. Many patients go forgoing their favorite foods to avoid the associated issues, but it doesn’t have to be like this. Proper treatment from a dental professional and continued dental hygiene practices can reverse quality of life issues such as this.
Pain Prevention
If you aren’t giving your dental health the attention it deserves, you’re compromising the built-in protection on your teeth, which makes you susceptible to painful infections and other issues. Cavities are caused when the protective layer of enamel on the outside of your teeth erodes to the point that the nerve endings in your teeth are exposed, which can be incredibly painful. When left untreated, the damage can become much more challenging to remedy, so it’s always best to see your dentist at the first sign of a toothache.
Another common cause of tooth pain is advanced gum disease, which, similar to cavities, is best treated when you first notice any signs. When gum disease has time to progress, it can lead to uncomfortable inflammation, infection, and even tooth loss. The good news is that many of these issues are entirely avoidable with proper dental hygiene.
Better Overall Health
You may be surprised to learn that your oral and general health go hand in hand. This is not only because improper dental hygiene can lead to or worsen certain diseases but also because certain underlying conditions can compromise your oral health, requiring additional attention placed on your dental hygiene. It’s best to ensure your dentist is aware of any underlying or chronic health issues you may have to help them individualize the suitable recommendations and treatments to meet your needs.
Regular Visits to the Dentist are Essential
Most dental issues can be easily treated or avoided when caught early enough. Call Newton Dental Associates today to schedule an appointment and stay on top of your dental health. You can get in touch with us by calling (617) 965-0060 or emailing nda@newtondentalassociates.com.
