10 May It’s Nearly Here… National Smile Month Begins on the 17th May
How is your smile?
With lockdowns and furlough have you been looking after your smile or has your oral health taken a step backwards? If you have not been able to get to your dentist or if you’ve been nervous of going out. It is easier than you think to get your oral health back on track.
The short term side effects from poor oral health are:
- bad breath
- tooth decay
- tooth loss
- gum disease
- low self-confidence
The long term effects of poor oral health
Are more serious as they affect your general health in lots of ways as bacteria from inflamed gums enters your bloodstream leading to;
Endocarditis
A rare and potentially fatal infection of the inner lining of the heart.
Atherosclerosis
When plaque develops on and thickens your arteries’ inner walls, decreasing blood flow leading to an increased risk of heart attack or stroke.
Dementia
Gingivitis bacteria can enter your brain through nerve channels or the bloodstream, possibly leading to Alzheimer’s disease.
Respiratory infections
Inhaling bacteria from infected teeth and gums over a long period could lead to infections in the lungs, as well as pneumonia.
Diabetic complications
Periodontal disease can make your blood sugar difficult to control and make your diabetes worse. People with diabetes are also prone to periodontal disease. It’s a vicious cycle.
Rheumatoid arthritis
The more tooth loss due to gum disease, the higher the risk of rheumatoid arthritis.
5 steps you can take to improve your oral health at home
- brushing your teeth last thing at night and at least one other time during the day, with a fluoride toothpaste
- spit out after brushing and do not rinse, so that the fluoride stays on your teeth longer
- cleaning between the teeth with ‘interdental’ brushes or floss at least once a day
- strive to eat healthily and avoid having sugary foods and drinks
- and when your feeling comfortable return to regular check-ups
What we can do to help improve your oral health
Your dentist will assess of your current oral health situation by;
- Taking your full dental and medical history.
- Performing a thorough clinical examination.
- Taking x-rays as necessary.
- Discuss oral health concerns.
- Assessing how your diet and lifestyle affects oral health.
- Evaluating your current home care routine and recommending any improvements.
- Explain any treatment needed to improve your oral health.
What joining our dental practice gives you:
- Advice and help specifically tailored to you.
- Access to treatments such as whitening, tooth replacement, crowns, bridges, composite build ups.
- An array of help with your own oral hygiene techniques as well as gum health treatments.
- Advice on smoking, dry mouth, mouth pain, facial pain.