It used to be an accepted fact that oral health and bodily health were two separate things. A lot of people still think that way today! Unfortunately for those who don’t think their oral health is related to the rest of their body this is incredibly untrue!
At New Albany Implants we see the effects of this misinformation all the time. Many patients missing teeth have made lifestyle choices that have led to their current conditions and in many cases their problems could have been prevented! That’s why we’re writing this blog today – to help you understand the importance of lifestyle choices and their effect on your oral health!
Smoking
If you’re a smoker you’ve probably heard time and time again how bad it is for your health. The same goes for your oral health as well! Smoking actually changes the bacterial balance in your mouth, setting you up for serious problems later on!
Some bacteria in your mouth is harmless. Other kinds produce the acids that cause cavities and tooth decay. Those harmful bacteria are in a decent balance with the harmless kind but not when you’re a smoker! Patients who smoke have been found to have a horribly high level of dangerous bacteria in their mouths, making their chances for tooth decay, gum disease, and eventual tooth loss much higher!
Diet
Do you have a sweet tooth? Yes, we’re going to talk about sugar now. It’s sugar that causes that bad bacteria mentioned above to make acids that ruin your teeth! If your diet includes a lot of foods high in sugar and carbs you’re really putting yourself at risk for tooth decay! That’s right – carbohydrates contain a lot of sugar called glucose, which isn’t as sweet.
Do you know how much sugar you should eat in a day? The American Heart Association says you shouldn’t have any more than six teaspoons. Unfortunately that’s less than a single can of soda! In reality most Americans end up eating somewhere around 20 teaspoons! Excess sugar puts your health at risk both bodily and orally so you should definitely cut back!
Sleep Patterns
How much sleep do you get a night? Studies have shown that people who get less than seven or eight hours of sleep per night are at much higher risk of developing gum disease! Lack of sleep is actually the second most significant risk factor behind smoking!
You may also be losing sleep because of oral health! If you grind your teeth a lot at night or you suffer from sleep apnea you may be disturbing your sleep – the risks just keep piling on!
Home Oral Care
Are you a diligent tooth brusher at home? It’s important to brush your teeth two times each day for at least two minutes each time and to flossi in the evening! Your home care habits are an essential part in keeping plaque bacteria under control and without good brushing habits your teeth are done for!
Plaque bacteria build up over the course of the day. You know that sticky filmy feeling your mouth has in the evening? That’s plaque bacteria! Brushing and flossing are how you give your teeth a fresh start at the beginning and end of each day. Flossing daily is super important too (even though you probably hate it). Bacteria loves to hide in the places your toothbrush can’t reach and getting them out is key to keeping your smile healthy!
Professional Oral Care
Home care, diet, not smoking, and getting enough sleep might be important to keeping your teeth healthy but they aren’t all there is to it! Professional cleanings and exams are the last fundamental thing that you need to do! Making professional dental care a part of your lifestyle is key to having a smile that lasts a lifetime!
We may be called New Albany Implants but we’re still happy to see you for preventive care like cleanings. We’re part of your oral health no matter what you need! Never hesitate to call us with questions, concerns, or to make an appointment!
You can reach New Albany Implants by calling (812) 945-7645 or you can request an appointment by filling out our online form. We look forward to seeing you soon!