July 18th: Dental Awareness Day

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Being Aware of Proper Dental Care Can Lead to Countless Benefits

Throughout the year, there are countless days on the calendar that are set up in celebration of or in awareness of certain causes and traditions. For those in the world of dentistry, July 18th marks Dental Awareness Day. This is a time for dentists, oral hygienists, and others in the field of dental healthcare to share information regarding the importance of proper dental and oral care.

The goal for this day is to increase the public’s knowledge and consciousness of the long-term health benefits related to taking care of your teeth, mouth, and gums.

Proper Dental Care

Proper dental hygiene is only sustained if you create an effective and consistent oral and dental care routine. This is more than just brushing your teeth. There are several steps you should take to prevent the formation of cavities and other harmful conditions. Some of these steps are:

  • Brush your teeth with fluoride toothpaste twice daily.
  • Floss your teeth at least once a day.
  • Eat a healthy and tooth-friendly diet.
  • Rinse out your mouth using fluoridated mouthwash.
  • Avoid oral piercings.
  • Dr.ink fluoridated water.
  • Quit the use of tobacco products like smoking cigarettes and smokeless tobacco.
  • See your dentist regularly for cleanings twice a year.

These routines and tips not only help with the health of your teeth, but they also help prevent gum disease and other diseases such as oral cancer. However, it is always important to stay alert for any signs that dental and oral health is declining. It is important that if you are a parent or in a position of teaching young children, you should begin teaching them about proper dental and oral care early. This will help instill good habits in their everyday life.

General Health Concerns Linked to Oral Health

The human mouth is full of bacteria, but the majority of the bacteria found in your mouth is harmless and helps your body digest food. The mouth is the first point of entry in both the digestive and respiratory tracts, and unfortunately, this means some harmful bacteria do make their way into your mouth.

By utilizing these dental and oral care techniques, you can help your body’s natural defenses and prevent these bacteria from harming your mouth and body. However, if you neglect your teeth and mouth, your body’s defenses can only do so much, which will lead to dangerous levels of bacteria buildup. While the high levels of bacteria do cause inflammation in your mouth, it can also lead to other health concerns such as:

There are preexisting conditions such as diabetes, HIV, osteoporosis, and more that can affect your oral health and can cause future conditions or concerns to develop. Speak with your dental care experts at Cosmetic & Family Dentistry to learn what you can do if you have one of these conditions.

July 18th is a day for many dentists, oral hygienist, and others in the dental field to teach and spread important knowledge about proper dental care. Taking care of your teeth should never be overlooked and should be a priority in everybody’s personal care routine. Not only can it save your teeth, but it can also save your life. To learn more about proper dental care or to schedule your next appointment, contact Cosmetic & Family Dentistry of Las Colinas.