Someone who is beautiful is often healthy and vice versa. The same idea applies to one’s smile. You take care of your teeth and gums because you want that beautiful smile that you will be proud to show off. Yes, you want your gums and teeth to be healthy, so you’re more likely to avoid cavities, gum disease, and other oral health conditions. However, the tangible result of a healthy smile is a beautiful smile. However, wanting to maintain your oral health goes beyond giving you a beautiful smile. Here are some additional benefits of a healthy smile that you may or may not know about:

A healthy mouth increases overall health. Research has been conducted indicating the interconnection between oral health and general health. The Mayo Clinic notes that germs and bacteria from severe gum disease can enter the bloodstream and cause serious infections in other parts of the body in people with compromised immune systems, such as those with HIV/AIDS. Infections can also be harder for people with diabetes to fight off. Diabetics who have gum disease also have a harder time controlling their blood sugar levels.

Germs and bacteria from a diseased mouth can also lead to endocarditis, an infection of the lining of the heart and clogged arteries leading to cardiovascular disease. Periodontitis, or severe gum disease, has also been shown to increase the risk of preterm birth and low birth weight in pregnant women.

Worsening oral health can also be a sign of declining general health. Weakening of the jaw bone and tooth loss from periodontal disease can be an indication of worsening osteoporosis, and people with Alzheimer’s disease tend to experience worsening oral health as their condition worsens.

A healthy mouth can increase self-confidence and happiness. A healthy and beautiful smile makes one more willing to show it. Those who laugh and smile regularly are shown to be happier, more confident and have a more positive outlook. They are also more pleasant to be around. The act of smiling involves the use of muscles that trigger certain hormones in the brain that are associated with pleasure.

On the other hand, there are those with unhealthy mouths who always try to hide their smile. Those who don’t smile regularly are seen as cold and insecure and are at higher risk of being depressed and unhappy.

A healthy mouth will give you that smile you can be proud of. That beautiful smile will also help you avoid other potentially serious illnesses and infections, and can increase your self-esteem, happiness, and quality of life.

proper oral health

To achieve great oral health, one must take care of their teeth and gums. This is done with daily tooth brushing and flossing at home and a regular professional dental cleaning and oral exam at the dental office every six months.

tooth brushing

Teeth should be brushed twice a day for two minutes each time. Be sure to use a soft or medium bristle toothbrush and don’t brush too fast or too hard as one may accidentally scratch the enamel on one’s teeth.

flossing

Flossing is just as important as brushing your teeth. While many patients may forego this step because it is too tedious and time consuming, flossing can dislodge food debris from the middle teeth that a toothbrush cannot.

If it has been more than six months since your last dental office visit and dental checkup, it is highly recommended that you schedule an appointment today. Going to the dentist may not be pleasant, but only a dental professional can assess the health of your mouth and spot any potential problems.

Daily care is needed for a healthy mouth that looks great. In addition to a beautiful appearance, a healthy smile can help maintain your overall health and increase happiness and quality of life.