There are a number of ways in which you can improve your oral health this year, which becomes especially important if you have braces. However, braces or no braces, your Durham, NC orthodontist knows that oral hygiene can help prevent a number of different diseases, one of the most notable being periodontal disease, also known as gum disease.
When your gums are inflamed, they can also become infected, which may in turn lead to other health issues not necessarily related to the mouth or gums. Though more research is necessary, orthodontists have discovered that certain diseases such as heart disease and diabetes have been linked to gum disease.
As with any other part of your body, if an infection is present and enters the bloodstream, you may experience sepsis or blood poisoning. Because of all of these risk factors and the importance of your overall health, good oral hygiene is an extremely valuable habit that could extend your life… not to mention the life of your natural teeth.
Improving Your Oral Health
- Brush at least twice a day. If you have braces from your orthodontist in Durham, NC, you may want to consider doing this even more often, but twice a day is the recommended amount for the average person. Brushing your teeth is the cornerstone for any good oral hygiene regimen.
- Use a water pick. This tool is especially helpful for ensuring the health of your gums as it can remove bacteria from even the smallest crevices. You can find water picks at your local pharmacy or drug store for anywhere between $40 and $80.
- Rinse your mouth after brushing. Whether you do this with plain water or mouthwash, rinsing your mouth helps to flush out any remaining bacteria that may be stuck in your teeth or on your tongue.
- Don’t forget to floss. Even if you use a water pick, you should still floss once a day anyway because flossing is more effective at removing plaque from the teeth, while a water pick is more effective at cleaning bacteria and food particles from the gums.
If your goal is to take excellent care of your teeth and gums to maintain a healthy, beautiful smile, making all of these a habit every day is your best bet for accomplishing that goal. Good oral care ensures that you don’t develop cavities, saves you countless trips to your Durham, NC orthodontist, and can help prevent various types of gum disease, including gingivitis, halitosis (chronic bad breath), and periodontal disease.
If you’ve recently gotten braces or are considering orthodontic treatment, good oral care habits are essential. No matter your situation, our Durham, NC orthodontic office is here to help! Whether you’re actively seeking tips on for better oral health for yourself or your child or are simply exploring your options, we strive to serve your needs. When you are ready to explore and learn more about oral health options that are best for you, click here to schedule your Wilson Smile Analysis.
Wilson Orthodontics For Better Oral Health
Specializing In Braces & Invisalign In Durham, NC
Dr. Wilson, a top rated orthodontist in Durham, NC and Oxford, NC offers many solutions to better oral health including braces for children and adults. These include Invisalign clear aligners, Damon braces, SureSmile braces and traditional metal braces.
Call today for a complimentary smile analysis at either of our orthodontic offices conveniently located in Durham and Oxford, North Carolina (NC).
Wilson Orthodontics Of Durham
2900 Croasdaile Dr. Suite 3
Durham, NC 27705
919.383.7423
Wilson Orthodontics Of Oxford
912 College Street
Oxford, NC 27565
919.690.8100