When we hear the phrase poor dental care, we may think it's referring to merely not brushing our teeth. It goes much deeper than this. In addition to the recommended twice per day brushing, poor dental care also means not flossing our teeth, eating sugary snacks that cause build-up of sugar along the gum line, as well as unhealthy beverages that can erode the enamel on the surface of the teeth. Proper care of the teeth includes care of the gums. Moreover, brushing after any meal can consequently result in strong overall oral health. Neglecting the health of our mouths can result in more detrimental health effects within the body as a whole.

Consequences of Poor Dental Health
When the mouth is not cared for properly and oral care is neglected, the Upper Hunt Club Dental Centre in Ottawa can help get you on the right track to better health. Did you know that gum disease and tooth decay can create negative effects on other systems of the body outside of the mouth? Inflammation along the gum line can actually increase your risk of heart disease. Bacteria that creates the condition referred to as periodontal disease is the same bacteria that builds up in the bloodstream creating blocked arteries. Plaque on the teeth can lead to plaque build-up within the arteries, increasing the risk of heart attack. Inflamed gums may also potentially create a substance that affects brain cells, which can increase your lifelong risk of mental decline, such as dementia related conditions like Alzheimer's. Gingivitis is often responsible for the bacteria that damages nerves through the bloodstream. Periodontal disease is especially damaging to diabetics, as the condition creates an issue where the diabetes becomes more difficult to manage. Periodontal disease and gingivitis have also been known to cause pregnant women to go into premature labor, as well, making oral health especially critical during all three trimesters. People diagnosed with certain types of cancer are also shown to have significantly poor oral health. These cancers move from beyond the obvious, such as mouth and throat cancers, and include cancer of the kidney and pancreas, as well as blood cancer. Those with bad oral health are moreover four times more likely to be diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis, according to the National Rheumatoid Arthritis Foundation.

Taking Preventative Measures
The Upper Hunt Club Dental Centre in Ottawa can assist you in the prevention of the development of poor oral health. We recommend brushing after each meal, as well as prior to bedtime, particularly if you have consumed sugary and salty foods or beverages. It is critical to remove sugars, acids, or other erosive substances from the teeth and gum surface. Brushing to remove particles of material stuck in and between the teeth helps to ensure proper cleaning to protect the enamel of the teeth and the gums. After brushing and flossing as recommended, added benefit is given when a mouthwash designed to protect against gingivitis is used in conjunction with appropriate teeth cleaning measures. If you cannot brush right away following a meal or consumption of sugary materials, chewing sugar free gum can help keep the mouth from drying out and it also encourages salivation which helps work sugar and acid off the surface of the tooth enamel. Visiting your dentist on a regular basis, annually or more often, can ensure that you are maintaining proper oral health, as well as encouraging the correction of dental issues immediately, prior to any long-term damage taking place in the mouth. Skipping tobacco is strongly recommended for good oral health, and limiting alcoholic beverages is also of benefit to one's oral health. Using fluoride toothpaste is advised, and don't forget to also brush the surface of the tongue to remove disease and odor causing bacteria when brushing the teeth. Drinking plenty of water is also recommended, as it can help ensure that materials aren't building up to later inflame the gums and damage the surface of the teeth.

It is known that by caring for your oral health properly, you are giving yourself overall better health throughout the body. By prevention measures, you can enjoy a lifetime of good oral and overall health, as well as early detection saving you from more serious problems throughout your lifetime. Visit the Upper Hunt Club Dental Centre, in Ottawa, for necessary treatments to keep your oral health at its best condition. Contact us today to book an appointment and start feeling better about yourself!