You might not think it, but oral hygiene plays an integral role in your overall health. Gum disease has been linked to other very serious health problems. So, if your New Year’s resolution is to improve your overall health, start with a happier smile.
Between your teeth and gums there is a small “V” shaped space known as the sulcus. Gum disease is an infection that affects this space and causes the breakdown of the tissues that support your teeth.
If the infection only affects your gums, it is called gingivitis, however if the infection is affecting the tooth root ligaments and connective tissues, it is referred to as periodontitis.
Gingivitis is characterised by inflammation of the gums caused by bacteria, made noticeable by red, swollen and bleeding gums. Gingivitis can lead to periodontitis, which is the major cause of tooth loss in adults.
Periodontal disease often progresses slowly without pain over a long period of time. The longer it goes undetected and uncontrolled, the more damage it causes to gums and other supporting tissues. Gum disease has been linked to other serious health problems including high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease, stroke and diabetes.
Regular dentist visits are key to achieving a happier smile and healthier you; allowing for early detection and therefore treatment of any issues. If you have private health insurance, some providers offer a free check-up and clean twice a year, so you should definitely take advantage of that.
If you don’t, it’s still a small investment in your health that could save you a lot of pain and money further down the track, because when abnormalities or decay are caught early, treatment can be minimal and less invasive.
Between visits, to help prevent abnormalities or decay from occurring, you should adopt a simple yet regular oral hygiene routine; brushing twice a day with a soft bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste, and flossing once a day.
Incorporating regular oral health checks as part of your continuing healthcare and adopting a simple yet regular oral hygiene routine of brushing twice a day with a soft bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste, and flossing once a day, will help to prevent the development of gum disease and help keep your natural teeth for life.
Shire Dental’s goal is to create happy, healthy smiles for life. In the New Year, we can help you achieve a happier smile and a healthier you.
You can make an appointment online by clicking here, or call 02 9531 4888 to speak to one of our friendly staff.
Our practice requires payment on the day of treatment. Payment can be made by cash, credit card or eftpos. We also provide the HICAPS facility to enable you to claim through your private health fund before paying your part of the account.
The Shire Dental team wish you all happier smiles in 2018!
