Everyone is a unique individual with their own set of needs when it comes to staying healthy. Oral health is no different. While we all need to brush and floss daily, there can be many factors that influence our mouth from day to day. Diet, habits, and dental care all contribute. So here the Placerville Dental Group would like to discuss how to understand the impact of common influences on oral health.
Diet — this daily choice significantly influences your oral health and how you feel. Food is fuel and some of it does a good job of feeding you, while doing a bad job of feeding oral bacteria. Do get this combo in your life, eat a healthy and varied diet of with plenty of fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains and protein. Instead of drinking sodas or energy drinks, hydrate with water. This prevents the oral damage caused by sugar.
Medications — almost all of them have side effects that impact oral health. Awareness is essential. Dry mouth is a common side effect that is often ignored but damages teeth over time. Saliva is important for remineralizing teeth and washing away acids and food particles, but reduce it and the mouth dries out. If you suffer from dry mouth, bacteria takes over, starting bad breath and tooth decay. If you are experiencing dry mouth due to medications, tell our Placerville dentists at your next appointment.
Pregnancy — pregnant women should declare their condition at their first appointment after the diagnosis. All pregnant women should see the dentist at least once during their pregnancy to ensure their teeth and gums are healthy. This is because it is common to develop “pregnancy gingivitis.” Various complications during pregnancy are linked to a woman’s quality of oral health. So keep up a good daily routine of brushing and flossing to maintain dental health.
Stress and Anxiety — these emotions are often taken out on our teeth with clenching or grinding, usually during the night, but for some during the day. Called bruxism, these behaviors prematurely wear teeth may even cause them to crack or break. If you wake up with a headache, jaw pain, or it hurts to chew, contact our local Placerville dental clinic immediately. A custom mouthguard may be just what you need to protect your teeth and help you sleep better at night.
Know your body and your teeth! Maintain your oral health and your body will feel better. For more information, contact the Placerville Dental Group for an appointment or consultation.
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