The benefits of maintaining good oral health go beyond a beautiful smile. Good oral health helps you to maintain a beautiful mind well into your golden years. Independent studies from researchers have found definite connections to poor oral hygiene and mental health. Here is what has been noted.
Alzheimer’s Disease & Dementia
The University of Central Lancashire (UCLan) conducted a study that tracted the effects of periodontal (gum) disease and Alzheimer’s disease. The results of the study revealed that the main bacteria that causes gum disease, Porphyromonas gingivalis, was found in the brain of many patients who had dementia and Alzheimer’s.
Another study followed the oral hygiene ativitites of over 5,000 senior citizens. Those who brushed did not brush their teeth at least once per day had about a 65% chance of suffering from demntia than senior citizens that brushed at least once per day.
Helpful Tips to Improve Your Oral Health
- Try to brush, floss, and gargle after every meal. Take your time brushing and flossing—remember the point is to thoroughly cleanse all tooth surfaces and gums. Most dentists recommend at least two minutes of brushing, but take as much time as you need. Don’t neglect brushing your tongue. The tongue often contains a large amount of bacteria.
- Fluoride toothpastes and bacteria fighting mouthwashes help to protect your oral health.
- Never use your teeth to do things that tools are made for (i.e., opening wrappers, cracking hard items open, pulling things). Such activities can result in permanent damage to your teeth.
- Avoid smoking. Good oral health and smoking are opposed to each other. Smoking leads to a wide variety of oral health problems including, tartar, plaque, gum disease and cancer.
Dr. Mehta and Associates recommends that everyone brush, floss, and gargle at least twice every day. It is also best to visit your dentist at least two times every year. Do you have questions about taking care of your teeth and gums? Our hygienists can assist you with learning some of the best daily oral hygiene techniques. Our offices are conveniently located in Riverside, and Temecula.
