With COVID-19 still a risk, there is a lot of uncertainty right now. However, one fact that is surer than ever is the importance of dental care. Maintaining a clean and healthy mouth helps you eat, speak, and enjoy your day to day life, but your oral health can also have an impact on your overall wellbeing. Read on to learn about the significant effects that your mouth can have on the rest of your body from an experienced dentist in Leawood.
How Can Dental Hygiene Affect Your Overall Health?
Your smile is like the gateway to the rest of your body, which is why it’s common for infections to start in the mouth before spreading. One of these regular infections, gum disease, is completely harmless if caught early on. However, without treatment, the bacteria that infects your gums can get in your bloodstream, causing inflammation that leads to increased risks of heart issues, strokes, high blood pressure, and more. This becomes a special concern during the pandemic—a time where your immune system needs to be at full strength. When your gums become infected, your immune system is alerted to fight it, which leaves you for susceptible to other viruses.
Why Are Routine Dental Visits Important?
While you may be thinking about delaying your routine checkups and cleanings, these appointments are vital for your overall health. These visits primarily prevent and detect oral health issues (like gum disease) before they become serious. This not only saves you time and keeps you healthy, but it helps you avoid more costly dentistry in the future.
Routine checkups also give your dentist a chance to look for problems like oral cancer. This type of cancer is often difficult to detect on your own because it can be incredibly discreet. Without the help of a professional, this serious issue could go unchecked.
Maintaining Dental Health During COVID-19
It can be easy to let your routine slip during COVID-19, but a clean mouth will help keep the rest of your body happy and free of sickness. Remember to brush your teeth twice a day and floss once to prevent problems like tooth decay and gum disease. You can also use a nonalcoholic mouth rinse to clean areas you can’t reach.
Additionally, you should maintain your biannual dental checkups and cleanings. Your dentist is committed to providing the quality care you need in a safe and clean environment. From screening questions to social distancing between patients, your dentist is taking the precautions necessary.
The link between your oral and overall health is stronger than you think. That’s why it’s essential to see your dentist regularly and use these helpful tips for dental hygiene during the pandemic.
Meet the Dentist
Dr. Dennis C. Ayer is an experienced dentist who has been caring for Leawood patients since 1984. He has logged over 3,500 hours of continuing education courses to ensure his patients receive the latest dental services. He also has advanced training in Invisalign, dental implants, Botox, and more! If you have any questions, he can be reached through his website or by phone at (913) 246-3000.