We talk a lot during your visits to my Holland dental office – about your kids, your job, your spouse, and your teeth – but sometimes we have even more to say and not enough time to say it! So I’ve decided to put the most important things we want our patients to know right here.
Your Mouth is the Window to Your Body
While your eyes may be the window to your soul, your mouth is the window to your whole body. There is a very strong connection between your oral health and your systemic health, or whole body health. In fact, disease in your mouth puts you at greater risk for heart disease, stroke, and disease of your brain, liver, pancreas and so much more. On the other hand, a healthy mouth is linked to a longer, healthier life. This is why keeping up with your appointments at my dental office in Holland is so important.
Stop Blaming Your Bad Breath on the Garlic
Bad breath can result from an especially garlicky bowl of pasta or pizza, but bad breath that’s consistent could be the result of a dental problem like gum disease, dry mouth, or a poor hygiene routine. If any of those are the reason for your bad breath, mouthwash, mints, gum, and other breath freshening techniques only temporarily mask the problem while the true issue is still lingering in your mouth, potentially causing damage and serious concerns. Proper brushing and flossing can help beat bad breath but if it doesn’t go away, it’s important to call us as soon as you can.
Ignoring a Dental Problem Will Not Cause it to Go Away
Issues in your mouth will not go away if they’re not taken care of. Cavities will get bigger, your bite will not correct itself, and your gum disease surely won’t go away on its own. All of these problems, plus plenty of others, will only get worse if not treated. That cavity could get so big that it needs a root canal; your bite could result in problems with your temporomandibular (jaw) joint; and gum disease can lead to some really scary problems like tooth loss, heart attacks, and even dementia. It’s also important to remember that just because nothing hurts, doesn’t mean that nothing is wrong. That’s where we come in and check your mouth for any potential problems at each and every visit.
We’ve only covered three really important facts in this blog, but that doesn’t mean there still isn’t more to know. If you have any questions, or need to schedule your regular checkup or more in depth treatment, give my Holland dental office today.
Serving patients in Holland, Saugatuck, Zeeland, and surrounding areas.
