Why is it that we often prioritise taking care of our overall health, such as exercising regularly, maintaining a balanced diet and seeking appropriate medical treatment when we are sick or injured? However, when it comes to our dental health, why do many of us tend to overlook issues and delay visits to the dentist?
The fact is that not only is dental health part of our overall health and well-being, but dental problems can also have knock-on effects on the rest of our overall health. In this article, we’ll break down why it’s essential to maintain good dental health and some of the ways in which your dental health and overall health are interconnected.
Dental health and overall health — more connected than you think
We need to keep our teeth clean in order to prevent the buildup of bacteria and other plaque. Not only does this prevent cavities, but it also stops certain bacteria from entering your mouth into your bloodstream or respiratory system. Without maintaining oral health, these bacteria can cause conditions like:
- Endocarditis — a type of heart disease
- Pneumonia
- Diabetes, which is linked to gum health
- Cardiovascular disease
Likewise, certain medical conditions can also impact your dental health, so if you’re experiencing a period of ill health or managing a condition with ongoing treatment, it is worthwhile booking an appointment with your Sydney dentist to make sure that your teeth are in good health and not affected by either a medical condition or the medication you are taking to treat it. HIV and AIDS, osteoporosis and Alzheimer’s disease can all impact the overall strength and health of your teeth, as can rheumatoid arthritis and certain cancers.
If you suffer from dry mouth as a side effect of a medication or a symptom of illness, you allow bacteria that are normally washed away by saliva to enter. In these cases, setting an appointment with a cosmetic dentist in Sydney to professionally scale and clean your teeth is a great idea.
Good dental health supports a good diet
Poor dental health will inevitably lead to problems like gum disease, tooth decay and even tooth loss. If you compromise the structure of your teeth or have weakened teeth, this can make eating difficult and even painful. As a result, you may avoid certain foods that are hard and crunchy, like carrots, or contain smaller pieces like seeds. Poor dental health can even cause people to avoid chewy and fibrous foods like steak and some types of greens. The problem with this is obvious — when we avoid foods because they’re uncomfortable or painful to eat, we’re not getting all the essential nutrients, vitamins and minerals we need to live healthy lives.
If dental health is causing you to avoid certain foods or preventing you from having a healthy diet, you should meet with a local dentist in Sydney immediately. They can offer a range of treatments that can help you get back to a life where your teeth look and feel good.
The link between cosmetic dental treatment and mental health
If you’ve ever thought about seeking out a cosmetic dentist in Sydney, chances are you’ve given thought to how your teeth can affect your self-esteem and confidence. Because our teeth are at the centre of our face and a massive part of how we express and present ourselves to the world, not feeling confident in our smile can, in turn, start to affect our mental health.
Feeling your smile is something you have to hide can hold you back from achieving what you want in your professional life, it can make you feel uncomfortable in photographs and social situations and even hold you back from smiling — an act that we know changes our moods and everyone else’s around us.
Not to mention, experiencing chronic pain as a side effect of dental problems can also cause mental health issues like anxiety, stress and a depressed mood. If you want to maximise your wellness and support your mental health, cosmetic dentistry can help you feel more confident and happy with your appearance.
Talk to the best cosmetic dentist in Sydney
At About Smiles, we’re passionate about supporting your dental health in the interest of your overall well-being. This means taking care of all elements of your dental care, whether it’s cosmetic dental treatment, more advanced procedures or emergency dental care. If you think it’s time for a check-up and professional cleaning to ensure your teeth are in good condition and supporting your overall health, contact us and book an appointment at one of our convenient Sydney locations today!