Oral health plays a significant role in your overall health and self-esteem. However, we don’t often think of oral health when making resolutions or “starting over on Monday” with our latest health goals. If oral care hasn’t been a top priority in your life, it may be time to consider just how important it really is.

1. Good oral care lowers your risk for other diseases.

You might be surprised to learn that poor oral health has a strong correlation with cases of heart disease, diabetes, and other chronic illnesses. Increased bacteria in the mouth coupled with easy access to the bloodstream thanks to cavities, decay, and other dental maladies can have extremely detrimental effects on your overall health. Properly caring for your teeth and gums is one more tool in your toolbelt when it comes to preventing disease and chronic illnesses.

2. Good oral care can lead to a strengthened immune system.

Your immune system is your body’s first line of defense against bacteria, germs, disease, and other threats to your health and wellbeing. With food, drinks, medicine, and more passing through your mouth regularly, it can be a breeding ground for bacteria and infection. Keeping your teeth clean with regular brushing and flossing lessens the risk of cavities and plaque buildup, which can lead to inflammation that will trigger an immune response. Making healthy choices and maintaining a low-sugar diet will keep your teeth AND your immune system strong.

3. Good oral care improves your quality of life.

Let’s face it – eating is more than just a necessity. Sharing a meal bonds us with those we love, opens doors for conversation and relationship, and can be just plain enjoyable when we sit down to a plate of our favorite cuisine. However, it would be extremely difficult to sit down to a nice dinner and eat a delicious steak with cracked teeth or a throbbing molar…or to drink that cup of hot apple cider on a crisp fall night if your teeth are stinging from sensitivity to heat. Regular brushing, flossing, and visits to the dentist for cleaning and examinations ensure that your teeth stay in tip-top shape, avoiding painful and costly issues that could negatively affect your quality of life.

4. Good oral care improves your self-esteem.

It’s hard to put your best foot forward in relationships or the workplace when you’re ashamed of your teeth. It’s unlikely you would walk into a job interview or first date and flash a big smile if you have discoloration, cracks, chips, or crooked teeth. Take care of your oral health, making regular visits to a dentist that can guide you in the best way to care for your teeth to ensure you approach life with a smile that projects strength and confidence.

Oral health is very important for our emotional, psychological, and physical well-being. Don’t leave it off the list of priorities when it comes to self-care – improve your oral health and you’ll improve your life overall. If you’re in the St. Augustine area and need a dentist to come alongside you in your quest for better oral health, call Dental Remedies today for a consultation.