The condition of your teeth and gums can be an indicator of your overall health. Red, swollen and painful gums can be signs of some serious diseases. Practicing good dental health can avoid help reduce your risks.
Gums that are red and inflamed can be signs of a bacterial infection. Each time you swallow, bacteria from your mouth enters your bloodstream and can set off an inflammatory response elsewhere in the body. Swollen gums can be a sign of heart disease and diabetes.
Diabetes can many times reduce the resistance of your body to an infection. Elevated blood sugars increase your risk of gum disease and infection. If you are diabetic, keep insulin levels regulated as much as possible and see a dentist regularly
Dry mouth, also called xerostomia, depletes the mouth of vital bacteria fighting saliva. Because of this there is a higher chance of getting cavities and gingivitis. A dry mouth is more susceptible to tooth decay and gingivitis. Many medications can cause dry mouth. Discuss any side effects of medications with your doctor prior to taking them.
Excess stress in your life is proven to be detrimental to oral health. More than fifty percent of people do not floss or brush their teeth when they are feeling stressed. Those who are stressed out release higher levels of cortisol, a hormone that when is excess is bad for your teeth and body. Stress can also lead to smoking, drinking, clenching the jaw and grinding of the teeth. Grinding the teeth can cause teeth to break or can wear them down to where nerves are exposed.
Good habits are best learned young. It is recommended that you start brushing the teeth of a child as soon as they break through the gums. Though it is not safe to use toothpaste, plain water does the trick. Children should start seeing the dentist at about one year of age. Do not let a baby go to sleep with a bottle in their mouth and encourage them to eat lower sugar foods. As always, avoid candy. Teach older children how to brush their teeth and express the importance of keeping their mouth clean.
Taking proper care of your teeth your whole life can help to prevent problems as you get older. Adults should carry over the good habits learned as a child and continue to brush twice daily only now with a fluoride tooth paste and floss at least once a day. Do not smoke or chew tobacco. These can cause bad breath, staining of the teeth and raise your risk developing mouth or jaw cancer. Check your mouth regularly for any sores and to check your gums for redness or swelling. Visit your dentist regularly for check ups and cleanings. While there, discuss any medications you may be taking to be sure they will not cause any problems or have any side effects that could damage gums or teeth.
Healthy gums should be pink and firm. To keep gums healthy it is important to brush twice daily with a fluoride toothpaste and floss at least once a day. See your dentist regularly, at least once a year.
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