Influences of Dental Health

The first thing people see when first meeting another is their smile. In a way, it is a first impression. Brushing one’s teeth may seem like a minor task in their day, however many are unaware of its benefits beyond fresh smelling breath. It is important to keep your mouth healthy. Many do not realize this importance. Maintaining healthy teeth and gums can be tedious, but the outcome is definitely worth it. Aside from preventing bad breath, gum disease, and tooth decay, it can influence the body and mind in many ways. It can be good for one’s self-image as well. Dental health can create good habits, benefit overall health and even boost confidence.

It is never too early or too late to begin establishing good dental habits. It is better to start young to create a consistent routine. Adults are not immune to dental problems, they are not exempt from this advice either. Creating a fun routine with one’s kids could help with motivation. It would also benefit both parties. It is imperative that the adult does not instill fear while creating the good habits. Children should not fear the dentist. It can prevent them from having regular visits once they grow up. Instead of threats, reward prizes or compliment the child after demonstrating good dental behavior. Maintaining is not hard, but it is tedious. The main goal is to fight plaque. Letting plaque accumulate on the teeth and gums cause tooth decay and gum disease. Many forget that their dentist is only a “partner” in their dental health. Most of the work is done at home by maintaining and preventing. This emphasizes the importance of a good routine. It will have a good influence on one’s overall health as well.

A lot of people are not aware that not taking care of their teeth and gums can actually lead to other health problems, such as trouble digesting. Mouth infections can also affect major organs. Poor oral health can contribute to various diseases and conditions. For example, endocarditis can occur. Endocarditis is an infection of the inner lining or one’s heart. It happens when bacteria from another part of the body, such as the mouth, spreads through the bloodstream, and attaches to the damaged areas of the heart. Cardiovascular diseases such as heart disease, clogged arteries, and strokes can be linked to the inflammation and infections that oral bacteria can cause. Premature births and low birth weight has been linked to a gum disease called periodontitis. It is the inflammation of the tissue around the teeth that often causes the shrinkage of the gums and also loosening of the teeth. These conditions are not worth it, especially when it can simply be avoided.

To avoid the diseases, it would be smart to replace toothbrushes every three months, as well as brushing twice a day and remembering to floss. Scheduling regular dental appointments and avoiding drugs also help. With the mindset of keeping a healthy mouth, confidence will begin to increase.

Feeling as if one’s teeth are not at their best can be nerve wracking. A healthy smile can boost anyone’s confidence. A bright smile can provide a better self-image. Not being confident can keep one from laughing too hard or smiling too big. This takes away a lot of joy. Missing a tooth, discoloration, or crooked teeth may give the impression of an unkempt mouth. Some solutions are braces and teeth whitening systems. There are also many cosmetic dental surgeries. Even brushing teeth can make someone feel better. Personally, my mom has not had the most confident smile. Because of a diet of soda and candy, she has had many dental issues. Ranging from cavities, discoloration, and eventually losing teeth, she slowly began to lose confidence. I noticed she lost her smile, and does not smile as big as she used to. My mom had a beautiful smile. Currently, she is going through the process of different cosmetic surgeries to fix the discoloration and missing teeth. By the end of the year, she’ll have permanent implants and potentially her old smile back. I have never had a cavity, and a majority of my teeth are straight and a nice shade. However, when I had to have my wisdom teeth removed, my confidence lowered. The surgery went well, however the healing process was tough. I was in tons of pain and I convinced myself the swelling on the right side of my face would never go down. I started to believe my face would never be normal sized, and I could no longer eat any of my favorite foods again.

During my healing process, my gums developed an infection. The infection was caused by forgetting to use the medicated rinse that was required to help the process. Finally, after a long three weeks, my face was mostly normal. I learned the importance of caring for my mouth. It was especially essential since my gums and teeth were in a sensitive state. Following my surgery, I demonstrated great dental habits. I was careful to remember all the steps in my dental routine. It also increased my confidence when I knew I was taking care of my mouth. Some people will not have the opportunity to have an experience where it will motivate them to take special care of their mouth. Dentists have a small part in the education of oral health, however it is often overlooked or forgotten.

Although described as repetitive, keeping up with dental health is worth the “hassle.” It is actually a very simple everyday task. An easy three minute routine of brushing, flossing, and rinsing is worth the many benefits. If not performed, it can lead to spending money, more dentist visits, and pain that could’ve been avoided. Avoiding potential cardiovascular diseases by practicing good oral health is a small price to pay. After being educated on the many benefits of good oral health, it should persuade many people to engage in regular dental routines.