Importance of Dental Care
Oral health is an integral part of a person's overall health. A healthy mouth can support good eating habits, enhance mood and self-image, and contribute to physical, mental, and social well-being. It also can help prevent and treat diseases, including oral cancer, heart disease, diabetes, and other conditions.
Dental care can be a complex process, as many factors may affect dental health. This includes dental coverage, the availability of services and access to care, as well as patient attitudes, motivation,n and knowledge about oral health.
The most common barriers to dental care are cost and fear of dentists. The American Dental Association's Health Policy Institute has found that these are the primary reasons why adults do not obtain dental care.
Low-income people disproportionately bear the burden of oral diseases. These include dental caries, periodontal (gum) disease, tooth loss, and oral cancer. These conditions can have severe, even life-threatening impacts on an individual's health.
Poor oral health also exacerbates a wide range of medical conditions, ranging from osteoporosis and Paget's disease to diabetes and cardiovascular disease. For example, a person who has osteoporosis may be more likely to suffer from a rare but serious jaw bone disorder called osteonecrosis of the jaw. This can be treated effectively with bisphosphonates, such as Fosamax, Actonel, and Boniva, but patients should inform their dental professionals of their medications.
In addition, people who use certain medications such as sedatives and decongestants have lower saliva flow, which can lead to dental infections. Saliva helps neutralize bacteria and wash away food that can build up on teeth and gums, keeping the mouth healthy.
Medications that reduce saliva flow include antidepressants, painkillers, and diuretics. Other medical conditions such as asthma and diabetes can also impact the body's natural defenses against microbes that cause oral diseases.
Children: Ensure that your child has regular checkups, dental cleanings, and oral exams with their dentist from Advanced pediatric dentistry at least once per year. This is especially important for babies and toddlers, who are still growing and establishing strong teeth.
Adolescents: Have your dentist perform a dental exam and professional cleaning at least once every six months. These visits are a great opportunity for your dentist to screen for signs of decay and other problems, such as gum disease.
Adults: See your dentist at least twice a year, as recommended by your dental team. This will allow your dental team to detect any problems early and address them promptly.
Dentists can provide dental sealants and fluoride varnish for children under 7 years of age, which protect against tooth decay. Flossing is another important dental practice, and your dentist can recommend the type of floss you should use.
Avoid tobacco, as it hurts your oral health. Smoking increases your risk of tooth decay and gum disease, as well as a range of other health problems.
Maintain a healthy diet, and avoid sugary drinks and foods as much as possible. Brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss daily. Add on to your knowledge about this topic, by visiting this link: https://www.huffpost.com/entry/dental-care-why-you-need_b_11707700.