Dental Hygiene: Beyond Clean Teeth

Good dental hygiene is about more than just having white teeth. At Genesis Family Dentistry in Uptown Charlotte, we want each member of your family to have a beautiful, healthy smile. Quality dental care and hygiene are necessary to prevent problems such as decay, gum disease, and tooth or bone loss. Although a bright smile is important for appearances, a healthy oral cavity is crucial for overall health.

Cavities and Gum Disease

When it comes to dental problems, cavities and gum disease are at the top of the list. With proper dental hygiene, both are mostly preventable. Unfortunately, they are also two of the most common chronic diseases in the United States. Children and adults are susceptible to dental caries, which are tooth decay or cavities. Poor nutrition and/or poor dental hygiene contribute to decay.

Poor hygiene also allows plaque to accumulate on the teeth. Bacteria then spreads into the gums causing gum disease. Periodontal disease is preventable and is reversible in its earliest stages. When gum disease remains untreated, it causes pain, tooth loss, and bone loss. Healthy gums help support and hold the teeth in place. Periodontal disease is a common cause of tooth loss among adults.

Mouth-Body Connection

Although oral health refers to the health of the teeth, gums, and mouth, it ultimately affects the health of the entire body. The mouth and body are connected. Your mouth is full of bacteria, most of which is harmless. However, the entry points for the digestive and respiratory systems are in the mouth. The same bacteria in the mouth can cause diseases or issues for the systems of the body. Oral health has been linked to the following conditions:

• Endocarditis
• Cardiovascular disease
• Pregnancy or birth complications
• Pneumonia

Additionally, patients with diabetes, HIV/AIDS, osteoporosis, or Alzheimer’s may be more susceptible to oral health problems.

How to Protect Your Oral Health

Daily brushing and flossing keep bacteria under control. Poor oral hygiene allows the bacteria levels to increase and potentially cause issues such as gum disease or tooth decay. By following good oral health habits, you increase your overall wellness. Adhering to the following tips helps maintain your dental health.

• Brush twice daily for two minutes. 
• Floss daily to remove food particles.
• Use mouthwash.
• Replace your toothbrush or toothbrush head every four to six months.
• Visit your dentist at least twice per year for routine cleanings.
• Avoid tobacco use in any form.

Dental Appointments at Genesis Family Dentistry

We are happy to announce that we have reopened to treat all of our patients. Thank you for your patience and understanding. As a result of COVID-19, we have updated some of our daily procedures to ensure you get great service and to protect the safety of our patients and staff. Our office will communicate the necessary screenings and processes prior to your appointment. In an effort to maintain social distancing while reducing wait masterra times and the number of people in the office, the number of openings for scheduling may be limited. Please be patient with us as we work through this period.

We are happy to serve you and can’t wait to see your smile! For more information on dental hygiene with a dentist in Uptown Charlotte, contact Genesis Family Dentistry. Our team can help you keep your smile healthy and beautiful. Schedule your appointment today!