Healthy mouths and healthy bodies are one in the same. Not only will proper oral care ensure a bright, white smile, good oral hygiene can improve your overall health. Improving your oral health can help reduce your risk of disease and has been linked to a stronger memory later in life. Proper oral care during childhood years can really pay off during adulthood. Healthy brushing, flossing and rinsing habits, along with regular trips to the dentist can boost your overall health. Here are six ways teeth and gum care leads to a healthy mouth and body. Increases Self-esteem and Confidence The bad breath and discolored teeth that accompany gum disease and decaying teeth can limit your confidence and self-esteem. With healthy mouths come an increased quality of life. Individuals with healthy mouths are able to eat a broader diet, sleep better and experience less tooth pain and mouth infections. Lowers…

We’ve all heard the saying that you are what you eat. Those words couldn’t be more accurate when it comes to oral health. According to the American Dental Association, your dental health is the first thing to suffer from a poor diet. Improve your overall health with these super foods: Cheese Cheese lovers, rejoice! Not only is it delicious, but it has been shown to increase the pH levels in your mouth and lower your risk of tooth decay by neutralizing the acids in your mouth. It is rich in calcium, protein and other nutrients. Cheese strengthens tooth enamel which protects your teeth from sensitivity. Celery Filled with vitamins A and C, celery is great for your gums. It can also act like a toothbrush, scraping away food particles and bacteria as you eat. Yogurt Plain yogurts with no added sugars are super foods for your teeth. Yogurt is filled…

With countless toothpaste options available, it can be overwhelming to select between all natural ingredients, whiteners and fluorides. When selecting toothpastes your preferences and personal needs should be your primary consideration. This brief overview can help you to navigate the dental care aisle and select the best toothpaste. FluorideOne of the most important ingredients in toothpaste is fluoride. This naturally occurring mineral helps to fight cavities and tooth decay. The sugars, starches and left over food particles found in your mouth are the ideal energy source for the bacteria in your mouth. As the bacteria feed, they release a damaging acid. Fluoride strengthens the enamel on your teeth, making them less susceptible damage. Using a fluoride toothpaste can also protect against tooth decay. Even if your water contains high levels of fluoride, studies have shown that using a fluoride toothpaste can help to strengthen teeth. Tartar ControlThere are a variety…

Walking down the oral care aisle can seem a little over whelming. There are so many options when selecting a toothbrush. Soft, medium, hard bristles in different shapes and colors, then there is deciding between a manual or electric toothbrush. With countless options available, it can be difficult to choose what will provide the best cleaning. Manual toothbrushes are effective in cleaning your teeth, but only when they are used correctly. Most people do not brush for the recommended 2 minutes or adequately brush each tooth. Electric toothbrushes are able to brush a larger surface area in the same period of time. This option is particularly appealing to older adults and those with limited dexterity. The American Dental Association states that people with limited mobility in their hands, arms and shoulders could benefit from the powered brush and larger handle. Since electronic toothbrushes provide a better cleaning, users experience less…