Most of us understand that routine dental care can prevent more serious problems in our teeth. But you might not realize that visiting the dentist can keep you healthy in other ways. In fact, research has linked preventive dental care to lowered risks of several other health conditions, including:
- Diabetes
- Heart disease
- Pneumonia
Of course, routine dental care also keeps your teeth and gums healthy. But it’s not all about cavities; you should be aware of these other conditions as well:
- Gum disease
- Dry mouth
- Uneven jawbone
- Denture-induced stomatitis
- Root decay
- Darkened teeth
Other health conditions can complicate your dental situation. For example, arthritis in the hands can make brushing and flossing difficult. Those who suffer from cognitive decline and memory impairment can forget to perform these routine tasks. Prescription drugs can also affect oral health, particularly with regard to dry mouth and tooth decay. For these reasons, and others, routine dental care becomes even more important as we get older.
Dentists recommend the following steps to protect and improve oral health:
- Brush twice per day
- Floss once per day
- Use an electric toothbrush
- Use an antiseptic mouthwash once per day
- If you use dentures, remove and clean them daily
- Drink plenty of water
- Stop smoking, if you do
- Eat a healthy diet that includes dairy, leafy greens, and high-fiber foods
And last, but certainly not least, make sure to schedule regular exams with your dentist. Most recommend that you visit every six months, but your dentist might recommend another schedule based upon your specific needs.