The Augusta Regional Dental Clinic will be honoring World Oral Health Day on March 20th!
Oral diseases take many shapes and forms, with the most
common being tooth decay and gum disease. If not properly
managed, they can negatively impact the rest of your body; which
is why oral health is essential to general health and well-being at
every stage of life.
General health conditions can also increase the risk of problems
in the mouth. For example, oral diseases are linked with diabetes,
heart disease, respiratory disease, and some cancers; while
having diabetes increases the risk of getting gum disease.
Poor oral health can be the result, as well as the cause, of poor
general health. ‘Think Mouth, Think Health’ by taking action to
protect your oral health and help you safeguard your general
health and quality of life.
Protect your mouth and body from early in life by:
- eating a healthy diet low in sugar, high in fruits and vegetables
- avoiding tobacco use
- avoiding excessive alcohol consumption
- adopting good oral hygiene habits
- brush your teeth for two minutes, twice a day, using either a manual or electric toothbrush and a fluoride toothpaste
- don’t rinse with water straight after brushing, spit out any excess toothpaste instead
- rinse with a fluoride mouthwash or chew sugar-free gum after meals and snacks when brushing isn’t possible
- clean between your teeth using floss or other interdental cleaners for additional benefits
- wearing a mouthguard when engaging in contact sports
- having regular dental check-ups