Dental Hygiene

WASHINGTON, DC, March 01, 2013 (Press-News.org) Dentistry tends to be thought of as a medical practice strictly dedicated to the service of the human tooth. The reality is that dentists are trained to ensure complete body health through the maintenance of the entire oral cavity, including the teeth, gums, and surrounding infrastructure. Without the preventative work done by dentists, oral disease can easily infect the mouth and, by traveling through the blood stream, spread quickly throughout the human body, inviting more serious systematic problems. Infections of the oral cavity, such as gum disease, have been linked to an increased risk of diabetes, heart disease, and stroke.

Understanding General Dentistry

Dental treatment is the key to diagnosing and repairing damage in the mouth and the surrounding tissue and bone structure. In addition, general dentists are trained to educate the public on proper dental care.

Dentists are specifically invested in the prevention of the two most common issues related to poor oral hygiene: tooth decay and gum disease. These infections are the result of plague buildup in the mouth, and left untreated, will spread to other areas of the body. In addition to the daily hygienic acts of brushing and flossing, most dentists recommend regular biannual checkups to stave off these problems. Neglecting to do so is the first step in developing serious health risks.

Consequences of Poor Dental Hygiene

Poor dental hygiene can lead to the following issues:

- Decay, cavities, and tooth loss
- Bad breath
- Abscessed teeth
- Gum disease

Regular, thorough care of your entire mouth is an important step in maintaining overall health. Proactive steps such as brushing and flossing are only the first step. By keeping twice yearly dental appointments, you can greatly reduce the risk of developing oral disease and ensure better overall health. Our experienced Washington, D.C. dental professionals at Softouch Dental Care can help you maintain a healthy, confident smile.

If you are interested in ensuring or improving your oral health in Washington, D.C., please contact Softouch Dental Care today at www.softouchdentalcare.com.