Why is my oral health important and do I need to have regular dental checks?

Our oral health is determined by several diverse factors, including diet, oral hygiene, smoking, alcohol use, stress and trauma. These factors are common to several other chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, cancer and strokes. Our mouth is a window into what is happening in the rest of our body, and your dentist can detect the early signs and symptoms of some systemic diseases (a medical condition which affects your entire body) such as Diabetes or AIDS just by looking in your mouth! Poor oral health results in difficulty speaking, chewing, swallowing and pain, therefore affecting your ability to consume the nutrition your body needs to stay healthy. Taking care of your oral health is an investment in your overall health. As your mouth is the entry point of many bacteria, to prevent bacteria from entering the body regular dental checks with a dentist and daily cleaning of your mouth is necessary. Your dentist will recommend you attend every 6 months or sooner depending on how much help you may need.

Common dental problems: how regular checks can help

There are several common dental problems that individuals may experience. Regular dental checks play a crucial role in identifying and addressing these issues early on.

1. Tooth decay and cavities
   Through a dental check up, our dentists will examine your mouth to detect any early signs of tooth decay and cavities. They’ll be able to identify areas of decay, remove plaque and tartar build up, as well as providing their appropriate treatments such as fillings or dental sealants.
2. Gum disease
   This dental problem is characterised by inflammation and infection of the gums. Dentists in regular check ups can assess the health of your gums and recommend appropriate treatments.
3. Oral cancer
   In regular check ups, our dentists are trained to identify any early signs of oral cancer. It is only with frequent dental check ups that significantly improves the chances of successful treatment and recovery.
4. Bad breath
   If your bad breath is persistent, it can be a sign of an underlying dental issue such as gum disease, tooth decay or oral infections. With regular dental check ups, dentists can get to the root of the cause and help treat it.
5. Malocclusion (misaligned bite)
   Malocclusion refers to the misalignment of teeth or jaws, which can lead to bite problems, difficulty chewing, jaw pain and even speech issues. If spotted early on, dentists can recommend treatment options such as orthodontics.
6. Teeth grinding
   Teeth grinding can lead to worn enamel, jaw pain or tooth sensitivity. During regular check ups, dentists can identify signs of teeth grinding and help combat the problem to prevent any further damage that can occur.
7. Tooth sensitivity
   Within a check-up, our dentists can evaluate the cause of tooth sensitivity and give you guidance on oral care practices to reduce sensitivity.

Taking control of your oral health: steps to maintain a healthy smile

1. Brush regularly
   It’s important to brush your teeth twice a day, using a soft-bristle toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Ensure that you brush gently in circular motions, ensuring you cover all tooth surfaces, including the gumline. Replace your toothbrush every three to four months or when the bristles become frayed.
2. Floss daily
   Flossing removes plaque and food particles from between your teeth and along the gumline. Use a gentle back-and-forth motion to clean between each tooth. If traditional flossing is challenging, consider using floss picks, water flossers, or interdental brushes.
3. Maintain a balanced diet
   Limit sugary and acidic foods and beverages, as they can contribute to tooth decay. Opt for a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. Calcium-rich foods like dairy products and leafy greens promote strong teeth and bones.
4. Limit snacking and sugary drinks
   
   Frequent snacking and sipping on sugary beverages expose your teeth to prolonged acid attacks. If you do snack, choose healthier options like fresh fruits, vegetables, or cheese. Drink water or unsweetened beverages to stay hydrated and minimise the impact of sugary drinks.
5. Stay hydrated
   Drinking water helps rinse away food particles and stimulate saliva production, which helps neutralise acids and protect your teeth. Aim to drink plenty of water throughout the day.
6. Avoid tobacco products
   Smoking and using tobacco products can lead to oral health problems, including gum disease, tooth discoloration, and oral cancer. Quitting tobacco not only benefits your overall well-being.

   It’s crucial that you practise implementing these oral-health steps into your life so that it becomes easier. Along with these tips, scheduling regular dental check ups is critical as you dentist can examine your teeth and gums and if required, provide appropriate treatments or preventive measures. 

   For further queries call Dentists & Doctors in Geelong on 03 5221 9129 or email us on info@dentistsndoctors.com.au and one of our oral health professionals will be happy to help you get back on track!