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A white smile and fresh breath are just two of the many benefits of practicing good dental hygiene. Every dentist knows that tooth and gum issues can negatively impact other parts of your body, so it is imperative to keep your teeth clean and healthy year-round. Below is some information about how to keep your mouth healthy.

Why Is Good Dental Hygiene Important?

Good dental hygiene is what will keep your teeth and gums healthy by cleaning away harmful bacteria and plaque that causes tooth decay. Optimal oral health can also help you achieve optimal health in all areas of your body. Dental problems like gum disease and cavities can make it difficult to eat properly and may make healthy food, like crunchy fruits and vegetables, uncomfortable to eat. These issues can also cause pain and bad breath. 

Poor dental health has been linked to a higher risk of heart disease, clogged arteries, and stroke. The same bacteria that cause gum disease can travel to your heart and spread from there. Gum infections like periodontitis have also been connected to premature births and low birth weights. 

dentistRegular visits to your dentist are a key part of good dental hygiene and these visits can help with early disease detection. A thorough examination can uncover vitamin deficiencies, acid reflux, diabetes, osteoporosis, oral cancers, and more. If these are detected early, they can potentially be treated before complications make the problem much worse. 

How Can You Practice Good Dental Hygiene?

The best way to maintain good oral health is by scheduling regular visits with your dentist every six months for a cleaning. Other ways include flossing every day and brushing twice a day for at least two minutes and rinsing with mouthwash after brushing. Chewing sugar-free gum after eating can remove food particles and produce saliva to fight against the development of cavities. 

Avoid eating sugary foods and drinks. Sugar on your teeth is a feeding ground for cavity-causing bacteria, so if you do consume these, make sure to rinse your mouth with water or brush your teeth afterward. 

 

If you are looking for a dentist to help you practice good dental hygiene, visit John P. Belbas, DDS in Lakeville, NY. This practice is friendly, caring, and experienced and will make your visit as comfortable as possible while providing the best care. Visit their website to learn about all the dental services they offer or call (585) 346-5220 to schedule an appointment. 

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