Humanity’s obsession with oral health stretches back almost 10,000 years to the Indus Valley Civilization. It is without a doubt one of the oldest medical disciplines on the planet, and almost every advanced civilization has developed its own unique method for promoting clean, healthy teeth and gums. That being said, our modern conception of dentistry is actually quite new. Keep in mind that it wasn’t until 1873 that Colgate introduced the first mass-produced toothpaste.
As you might have guessed, the world of dentistry has evolved considerably since the introduction of toothpaste. Today, modern dentists rely on all kinds of innovative technology, and new methods are constantly being developed. But what does this all mean for the average person? How can you strive to improve your dental health in the most effective way possible?
Why Oral Health is So Important
You might assume that oral health is a relatively minor aspect of our overall well-being, and that other aspects of your health are of a higher priority. It’s important to understand that in many ways, oral health is closely linked with our overall health. In particular, there is a correlation between gum disease and a wide range of health conditions, such as:
Cardiovascular Disease: The American Heart Association has stated that gingivitis can lead to chronic inflammation and infection. This can in turn lead to heart disease, stroke, and other cardiovascular concerns.
Diabetes: The American Diabetes Association has stated that gum disease can make diabetes progressively worse by negatively affecting blood glucose levels.
Memory: Various studies have linked gum disease bacteria to the development of confusion, memory loss, and other symptoms linked to Alzheimer’s Disease.
Prioritizing your oral health is also important purely from a financial perspective. If you take care of your teeth and prevent issues from developing, you can avoid spending large sums of money on treatments to correct concerns that have worsened over time. A preventive approach is always a smart move across all medical areas, including dentistry.
What Can You Do to Improve Your Oral Health?
If you’d like to take a more proactive approach when it comes to oral health, there are a number of steps you can take today. Although it’s true that you can rely on your dentist to help you pursue better oral health, you can also contribute by making various changes:
Consider Your Diet: One of the easiest ways to improve dental health is to reassess your diet. No one’s telling you to give up sweet food entirely, but you might want to develop an understanding of how these foods impact your dental health and make the necessary changes.
Stick to the Basics: While there are plenty of steps you can take, sometimes it’s best to stick to the basics. Focus on brushing twice a day, brushing your tongue, and flossing at least once per day.
Attend Regular Checkups: Don’t miss your regularly scheduled dental appointments – especially those with your hygienist. These professionals can spot and address potential issues early. Generally speaking, you should see your dentist at least twice per year.
The Future of Dentistry
Although modern dentistry is filled with all kinds of amazing technology, this exciting medical field continues to progress at a fast rate. We already have the capability to seek out cavities with lasers and use 3D imaging in everyday clinics. In the next few years, we will see a number of new trends emerge, such as augmented reality, AI, and enhanced remineralization. Although the future of dentistry certainly looks bright, you don’t need advanced technology to pursue proper oral health. Stick to the basics, see your dentist regularly, and you can enjoy a wide range of health benefits.
References:
American Diabetes Association. (2018). Diabetes and Oral Health [Brochure]. Authors.
Bad toothbrushing habits tied to higher heart risk. (2018). Retrieved April 15, 2021, from https://www.heart.org/en/news/2018/11/07/bad-tooth-brushing-habits-tied-to-higher-heart-risk
Large study links gum disease with dementia. (2020). Retrieved April 15, 2021, from https://www.nia.nih.gov/news/large-study-links-gum-disease-dementia
Newman, T. (2019). Gum disease and its links to other conditions. Retrieved April 15, 2021, from https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/324485
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