Maintaining A Healthy Smile Through Adulthood

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Oral health, regardless of age, is essential to good overall health. Unfortunately it is often an overlooked aspect of an older adult's general wellbeing. We have a tendency to emphasize tooth brushing and flossing for kids, but when it comes to our own mouths, proper brushing, flossing and regular visits to your Santa Monica dentist may get lost in the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Even if you brush and floss regularly, you may face certain oral health issues as an adult, including gum disease. Early symptoms of gum disease include red, swollen or tender gums that tend to bleed when you brush them. If you notice any of these warning signs, see your Santa Monica dentist before serious problems develop. Untreated, gum disease can lead to tooth loss.

The Key to a Healthy Smile

The key to a healthy smile is simple: practice good oral hygiene. This includes brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and flossing regularly to remove food particles between the teeth and along the gum line. You should also visit your dentist in Santa Monica for regular check ups and cleanings. Dentists can remove plaque and tartar from the teeth that regular brushing and flossing cannot. Your dentist can also detect dental problems early and recognize gum disease in its earliest stages.

In addition to good oral hygiene, adults should also maintain a healthy, well-balanced diet. Limit sugary and starchy foods, and avoid snacking between meals. If you regularly play contact sports, even if you're just the casual weekend warrior, always wear a protective mouthpiece to prevent injuries to the teeth and gums. A mouth guard custom-designed by your dentist can cushion the teeth and oral tissues if you sustain a blow to the face, reducing your risk of broken or knocked out teeth.

Healthy Teeth, Healthy Body

Taking good care of your teeth effects more than just your mouth. In fact, the health of your mouth often offers clues about your general wellbeing. In fact, recent studies are pointing to a strong connection between your teeth and your overall health, suggesting that gum disease is linked to other systemic diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, and even a possible link to premature births.

Don't underestimate the intimate connection between your oral health and your overall health, and what you can do to protect yourself. Also, watch for signs and symptoms of oral diseases, such as gum disease, and contact your Santa Monica dentist as soon as a problem arises. Taking care of your oral health as an adult is an investment in your overall health. When teeth are healthy, you will feel and look your very best, too.
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