When you think about your general health, what do you think about first? Diet and nutrition? Exercise and BMI? Brushing and flossing? If you wouldn’t automatically associate brushing and flossing with your general health, you’re not alone. Brushing and flossing are vital to your overall health, not just oral hygiene. Here are some lesser-known facts about oral hygiene that are equally important to your overall well-being:
- An apple a day also keeps the dentist away! Eating crunchy fruits and vegetables is a very good habit to get into if you want to keep your teeth healthy and strong. A healthy mouth is a reflection of and supports your overall health. But please don’t stay away from your dentist for too long! Make sure you schedule regular check-ups.
- Although tooth enamel is harder than bone, once it’s damaged, it doesn’t regenerate. Therefore, it is vital to take good care of it always. Overly aggressive brushing can be harmful to your tooth enamel and damage your gums, so make sure to use the right amount of pressure when brushing and only use soft-bristle toothbrushes, which are better for your enamel and gums.
- Adding tongue scraping to your oral hygiene routine will significantly improve your breath. Foul-smelling bacteria don’t just live on your teeth. They also feel quite at home on your tongue. It only takes a few extra seconds to scrape them away for fresher breath.
- If you have neck or back pain, it might be because of your teeth. Your teeth, jaw, and spine all work together. If your teeth are misaligned, that may affect how you hold your head, which can trigger a chain reaction along your spine and throughout your body. A healthy, properly aligned bite can make the pain go away.
Here’s one final fact that you may already know: When you take care of your mouth, you take care of your whole body. Oral health is not separate from your general health. It’s an integral part of achieving a healthier, happier you.
If it’s been a while since you visited us, it’s probably time to schedule your next appointment. Call our office located in Kissimmee, FL.