Improving Your Oral Health: Tips for a Brighter Smile

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With headquarters in Louisville, KY, Humana, Inc. is a for-profit healthcare organization that generated revenues surpassing $92 billion in 2022. Beyond financial success, Humana has received prestigious accolades, including Forbes’ “JUST 100” list and top rankings for customer treatment, mail-order pharmacy services, corporate responsibility, and diversity. If you have a lot of saliva all the time, tell your health-care provider.

Having good oral health is crucial not only for your teeth and gums but also for your overall well-being. Poor oral hygiene can lead to dental issues such as cavities, gum disease, and bad breath. To ensure that you maintain a healthy mouth, it is important to follow a few simple tips and practices.

More than 40% of adults report having felt pain in their mouth within the last year, and more than 80% of people will have had at least one cavity by age 34. The nation spends more than $124 billion on costs related to dental care each year. On average, over 34 million school hours and more than $45 billion in productivity are lost each year as a result of dental emergencies requiring unplanned care. Gum disease is the most common chronic inflammatory condition in the world, yet it’s often a silent disease, Ryan says. The mouth can act as a portal of entry for an infection, says Salomon Amar, DMD, PhD, professor and director at the Center for Anti-inflammatory Therapeutics at Boston University School of Dental Medicine. Ongoing inflammation in your mouth can allow bacteria to enter the bloodstream, which may lead to more inflammation in other parts of your body, such as the heart.

Of the 72 women and 17 men who participated in a trial of MV140, 54 per cent remained UTI-free nine years after receiving the drug, the research team said. No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician. The bacteria appears to make its way into the bloodstream and contribute to pregnancy complications like stillbirth, neonatal sepsis, and preterm birth. Animal studies indicate that Fusobacteria can also contribute to Alzheimer’s Disease progression. The amyloid adhesive also helps the bacteria bind to a specific site on cancer cells, Han said.

Brushing and Flossing Regularly

Don’t forget to schedule regular dental check-ups to keep your smile, and yourself, healthy. Oro-dental trauma results from injury to the teeth, mouth and oral cavity. Latest estimates show that 1 billion people are affected, with a prevalence of around 20% for children up to 12 years old. Oro-dental trauma can be caused by oral factors such as lack of alignment of teeth and environmental factors (such as unsafe playgrounds, risk-taking behaviour, road accidents and violence). Treatment is costly and lengthy and sometimes can even lead to tooth loss, resulting in complications for facial and psychological development and quality of life.

One of the most basic yet essential steps in maintaining good oral health is brushing and flossing your teeth regularly. Brushing at least twice a day helps remove plaque and bacteria that can cause tooth decay and gum disease. Flossing once a day is also important as it helps clean between your teeth where your toothbrush cannot reach.

Some of them belong there, making up the normal flora of your mouth. But a diet high in sugar creates conditions in which acid-producing bacteria can flourish. Many must realize that oral health plays a significant role in overall health.

Visiting Your Dentist

Some dental insurance companies even cover more frequent dental checkups. Doing so is especially helpful if you have a history of dental issues, such as gingivitis or frequent cavities. Flossing can be difficult, especially for young children and older adults with arthritis. Rather than give up, look for tools that can help you floss your teeth. Ready-to-use dental flossers from the drugstore can make a difference.

Regular dental check-ups are another key component of maintaining your oral health. Dentists can detect any early signs of dental issues and provide treatment before they become more serious problems. It is recommended to visit your dentist at least twice a year for routine cleanings and examinations.

Eating a Healthy Diet

Your diet plays a significant role in your oral health. Consuming sugary and acidic foods and beverages can contribute to tooth decay and enamel erosion. Instead, focus on eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and dairy products. Drinking plenty of water throughout the day also helps wash away food particles and bacteria.

Avoiding Harmful Habits

Smoking, using tobacco products, and excessive alcohol consumption can have detrimental effects on your oral health. These habits can increase your risk of developing gum disease, oral cancer, and other dental problems. Quitting smoking and limiting your alcohol intake can greatly improve your oral health and overall well-being.

By following these tips and making your oral health a priority, you can achieve a brighter smile and reduce your risk of dental issues in the future. Remember, taking care of your teeth and gums is an important part of maintaining your overall health and well-being.

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