Ensuring optimal care of your mouth, the gums, and your teeth is a highly rewarding goal, according to medical professionals. Not only can these activities eliminate bad breath, ward off gum disease, and effectively combat against tooth decay, but they can help in preventing the development of certain medical problems, such as diabetes, stroke, and heart attack.

The mouth is the main entry point to the body; therefore, if it is in poor health, it is likely to result in many negative consequences for the rest of the body. In this brief guide, you will learn about 5 different things that can result in poor oral health.

Issue #1: Breathing Through Your Mouth

Are you one that breathes through your mouth? If so, it is likely that you either have an obstruction or other type of issue with your nasal cavity or that you have acquired a bad habit. Either or, it is a good idea to discuss the issue with your doctor as it could have negative consequences when it comes to your oral health.

The main issue is the development of dry mouth. This, in turn, results in low saliva production. Saliva is exceptionally important in combatting the potentially harmful bacteria within the mouth. If you breathe through your mouth, develop dry mouth, and your saliva production slows, you are likely to suffer from more infections, higher levels of tooth injuries, and other complications that are similar in nature.

Issue #2: Grinding Your Teeth

Grinding your teeth has the potential to wear down the teeth, as time progresses. This habit is most often formed by those that experience high levels of stress or complications in sleeping. If you experience this issue, you should consult with a doctor to determine the underlying cause.

Additionally, you should make an appointment with the Implant & Perio Center of Kansas to be fitted for a mouth guard that can help protect the surfaces of the teeth from this negative habit. While it may take years for teeth grinding to negatively impact the teeth, once it happens, the damage is done.

Issue #3: Chewing on Items Unnecessarily

The next issue that may negatively impact your oral health is chewing on items that are not necessary. You may chew on ice, sunflower seeds, pencils, the ends of your glasses – it does not matter. This habit can wreck your teeth and results in chips and cracks. If you have a habit of chewing, it is best to opt for gum that does not contain sugar. This will aid in ensuring that saliva production is heightened and that the teeth become stronger.

Issue #4: Using Whitening Products

While there are many over-the-counter whitening products available on the market today, it does not mean that the products are safe. In fact, most people that use these products end up over using them. As a result, the enamel on the teeth weaken and tooth sensitivity may develop.

If you want to have a whiter, brighter smile, you should receive only professional whitening services like those offered at Implant & Perio Center of Kansas. By having professional treatments performed, you can rest assured that you are not damaging your teeth or ruining your oral health.

Issue #5: Using Hard Toothbrushes

The fifth issue that causes the most oral health problems among people is opting for the hardest toothbrushes on the market. You should always opt for a toothbrush that has soft bristles.

Hard ones not only ruin the surfaces of the teeth, but they have the capability of damaging the soft tissues of the mouth. Soft bristle toothbrushes used in conjunction with floss, fluoride toothpaste, and the proper mouth rinse will thoroughly clean the teeth and keep the mouth at optimal health.

Conclusion

There are many methods for keeping your oral health up to par. First, you should avoid that which has been highlighted within this guide. Next, you should ensure that you have regular dental checkups.

If oral health problems arise, you should deal with them immediately. For example, if you chip a tooth, you should look into single tooth replacement. If you are missing teeth, you should immediately seek out dental implants.

Dr. Marq J. Sams at Implant & Perio Center of Kansas offers a wide assortment of procedures that will keep your smile beautiful and your mouth healthy. If you would like to start getting your mouth in tip-top shape and optimizing your oral health, contact us today!