A Healthy Mouth Is Important for Your Overall Health - By: whitenteethathome

Today’s research shows that having healthy white teeth isn’t just a cosmetic benefit, it is also important for your overall health and well being. To many, having a bright white smile makes them feel good and confident in themselves. There is now scientific evidence that shows that this confidence can be more than “tooth deep.”

Let us start with the basics – maintaining good oral hygiene. Regular brushing, flossing and rinsing really do make a difference. When you regularly clean the acids left by many foods and drinks from your teeth, you are preventing all types of dental problems later. Acids regularly left on your teeth over time will begin to break down the outer layer, or enamel, of the teeth. Tooth enamel is one of the hardest substances in the body and is responsible for protecting the lower layers of the teeth. Erosion of your tooth enamel can lead to cavities, discolored teeth and tooth sensitivity, but those are the least frightening of the other problems that can come from bad oral health.

Other causes of oral health problems which may lead to tooth decay and health problems affecting your whole body include:
Dry Mouth – whether caused by medication or Sjogren’s syndrome, having a dry mouth means that the saliva that is needed to protect your teeth and gums from bacteria that causes dental problems such as tooth decay and gum disease and tooth discoloration.

Teeth Grinding – grinding your teeth due to stress, or pain in your jaw, can erode and damage teeth enamel, again causing discoloration and tooth decay.
Plaque – Plaque forms on teeth whenever you eat or drink foods or beverages with sugars. When the plaque is not cleaned away with daily brushing and flossing, and regular dental visits, it can build up and break down the enamel or cause gum irritation called gingivitis.

Gingivitis -- Gingivitis is the term for inflamed and bleeding gums which can lead to gum disease. When gums are inflamed, bacteria from the mouth is allowed into the bloodstream which research has found can cause problems such as heart attacks and dementia as well as many other potential health problems.

What are some of the long-term effects of some of these dental issues? Left untreated, Gingivitis can lead to health problems such as heart disease or diabetes. Bacteria from an unhealthy mouth can travel in your bloodstream and cause an inflammatory reaction somewhere else in your body. Some studies support this theory, as they have found that people with rheumatoid arthritis are eight time more likely to have gum disease and that treatment of the gum inflammation and infection often reduces joint pain and inflammation for these patients.

The key thing to understand is that all of these problems can be avoided by simply following good dental practices throughout your life. What does that mean? Brush with a good, not too hard, toothbrush two to three times a day using a fluoride toothpaste; floss at least twice a day to remove the residue that gets stuck between your teeth; use a mouthwash as a final rinse to get that extra clean; see your dentist for regular dental exams and cleanings and be sure to have any problems like cavities or infections cared for right away. Simple steps that are often ignored, but if followed can help you maintain your overall health for many years to come.

About the Author

You can find more information and tips on maintaining your dental health and how to get beautiful white teeth at http://www.whitenteethathomenow.com

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