Taking good care of your teeth and gums isn’t just about preventing cavities or bad breath.

The mouth is a window into the health of the body. It can show if you are not eating foods that are the best for you or if you may be at risk for a disease. Diseases that affect the entire body (such as diabetes) may be noticed because of mouth sores or other oral problems.

The mouth is filled with many bacteria. 

Some of these bacteria are linked to tooth decay and periodontal (or gum) disease. Periodontal disease may be connected with diabetes, heart disease and stroke. The exact connection is not yet known. 

Effects of Periodontal Disease

What You Can Do

Keeping your teeth and gums healthy is very important.

Brush your teeth well twice a day. In addition, you should floss or use another between-the-teeth cleaner once a day. Consider also usingan antimicrobial (germ-fighting) mouthrinse every day.

Choose dental products that have the American Dental Association Seal of Acceptance. The ADA Seal tells you that the product is not only safe, but it also does what it says it does.

Schedule regular dental visits. Professional cleanings are the only way to remove tartar (or calculus), which traps plaque bacteria along or below the gumline.

Tell your dentist, Dr. Michael Genovese in Saint Peters,MO, about changes in your overall health, like recent illnesses or ongoing conditions. Provide an updated health history including medication use both prescription and over-the-counter products.

Don’t smoke or chew tobacco. If you use tobacco, talk with your dentist, Dr. Michael P Genovese in Saint peters,MO, about options for quitting.

And finally, Manage dry mouth. Too little saliva in the mouth can lead to tooth decay and gum disease. Many medicines cause dry mouth. If you think you may have dry mouth, talk to your dentist about ways to manage it.

If you need dental implants, turn to the professionals at Genovese Dental in Saint Peters, MO. They have over 30 years of experience in the dentistry field, and they strive to meet every patient’s unique needs. And with an extensive array of services, including oral exams, cleanings, teeth whitening, and root canals, you can rest assured they will keep your smile in top-quality condition. Give them a call today at (636) 928-4090 to schedule an appointment, and visit their website for more information on their practice.