Oral hygiene is more than just maintaining a bright smile; it’s a critical component of our overall health. Good oral hygiene can prevent a variety of dental issues, including gum disease and tooth decay, and can even help to keep your whole body healthy. Poor oral health, on the other hand, can lead to serious health problems beyond the mouth.
Edwards Family Dental in Dublin, OH is dedicated to promoting and maintaining oral health. We believe in the power of good oral hygiene and its impact on overall health. Our team of professional dentists and dental hygienists works tirelessly to ensure our patients understand the importance of oral care and to provide the best possible dental care services.
How Dental Hygiene Affects Overall Health
Good oral hygiene is essential to overall health. Poor oral hygiene can lead to dental issues like gum disease and tooth decay, and it can also affect your overall health. During your visit, our dentistry team will review proper brushing and flossing to protect your enamel and prevent tooth loss.
Research has established a link between oral health and various systemic diseases. For instance, periodontitis (advanced gum disease) has been linked to heart disease, arthritis, and pneumonia, among other health conditions. Inflammation in the gums can lead to inflammation elsewhere in the body, contributing to these health problems.
Additionally, habits like smoking and using tobacco products can cause oral health problems like oral cancer and gum disease. Therefore, maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial not just for oral health, but also for overall well-being.
How a Dental Hygienist Helps You During Your Visit
At Edwards Family Dental, our dental hygienists play a pivotal role in maintaining your oral health. They provide professional cleaning, removing dental plaque that you may miss during daily brushing and flossing. They also use fluoride treatment to prevent dental decay.
Your dental hygienist will also perform an oral examination to check for signs of oral disease such as gingivitis or periodontal disease. They may take x-rays to detect cavities and other potential problems.
They also serve as an invaluable educational resource, providing advice and instructions on effective home care, including proper brushing and flossing techniques. They recommend oral care products, such as the right toothbrush, fluoride toothpaste, or a water flosser, to help maintain your oral health.
Dental Hygiene During Your Visit
When you visit our practice, we ensure your oral health is our top priority. Here is what you can expect:
- Examination: We conduct a thorough check for cavities, gum disease, oral cancer lesions, and other oral health problems.
- Professional Cleaning: Our dental hygienist removes plaque and tartar buildup around the gum line, leaving your mouth clean and healthy. We will also floss between your teeth and apply fluoride.
- Education: We provide guidance on maintaining good oral health at home and will help you prevent tooth and gum issues.
Our goal is to make sure you leave our office with a healthier and brighter smile than when you arrived.
Caring For Your Oral Health at Home
Good oral hygiene doesn’t stop at the dentist’s office – it’s something you need to work on daily. Regular brushing with fluoride toothpaste and flossing at least once a day is crucial to removing plaque and preventing gum disease and tooth decay.
It’s also important to maintain a healthy diet and limit snacking, particularly on sugary or acidic foods, which can lead to tooth decay. Be aware of the symptoms of oral health problems, such as bleeding gums, discomfort, dry mouth, or bad breath, and contact your dentist if these occur.
Moreover, lifestyle factors can greatly impact oral health. Avoid smoking and limit alcohol intake, as these can contribute to gum disease and oral cancer. Regular dental check-ups, along with these good oral hygiene habits, will help ensure your teeth and gums stay healthy, and contribute to your overall wellbeing.
Get the Best Dental Hygiene at Edwards Family Dental
At Edwards Family Dental, your oral health is our utmost priority. We provide comprehensive dental care services and strive to foster an environment where oral hygiene is valued and understood. Contact us today to schedule your next appointment, and let us help you maintain your oral health, for a healthier, happier you.
