The Role of Dental Hygiene in Overall Wellness
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) report that, despite advances in dental care, nearly 20 percent of children have untreated cavities, and as many as 41 percent have decay present in their baby teeth. You’re probably aware that dental hygiene is essential for removing plaque and preventing tooth decay, but you may not know that it can have a dramatic effect on your general health. Recent studies have shown that poor dental hygiene is linked to conditions such as diabetes and inflammation in blood vessels.
Heart-Healthy Benefits of Professional Teeth Cleaning
American Heart Association researchers recently shared findings demonstrating that good dental hygiene can actually reduce the risk of having a heart attack or stroke. A study that monitored 100,000 people over a seven-year period found that participants who had their teeth professionally cleaned once every two years reduced their risk of heart attack by 24 percent and their risk of stroke by 13 percent. Researchers argued that routine dental care and good oral hygiene reduced the growth of harmful bacteria that cause both periodontal disease and inflammation in blood vessels. The same types of bacteria that cause periodontal disease are also associated with an elevation in C-reactive protein, which is a known marker for blood vessel inflammation.
Dental Hygiene Basics
To increase your children’s chances of living healthy lives, be sure to make dental hygiene an important part of every day. When first teeth erupt at around six or seven months of age, regular brushing and visits to the dentist should soon follow. Additional ways to protect your children from cavities include limiting sticky foods and starchy snacks, avoiding prolonged consumption of sugary drinks, and not letting them fall asleep with a bottle of juice or milk. As your children age, be sure to make regular appointments with a pediatric dentist and dental hygienist for professional teeth cleaning.
To learn about our family dentistry practice in South Bend, call The Dental Center of Indiana today or make an appointment.
The Dental Center of Indiana offers affordable family dentistry and gentle, compassionate dental care in South Bend. With 6 affiliated practices throughout South Bend, our offices are conveniently located with extended hours to meet your needs. At The Dental Center of Indiana, we provide most dental services, from basic preventative care and general dentistry to specialized procedures and complete dental reconstruction. We accept most dental insurance plans and offer affordable financial solutions for any budget. Patient satisfaction is our top priority and we strive to provide the exceptional, affordable dental care and personal touch that lead to lasting relationships. A smiling patient is our greatest reward and we look forward to keeping those smiles healthy, beautiful, and bright. Discover an affordable dentist who truly cares at The Dental Center of Indiana.
