Ever since the Covid-19 pandemic began last year, people have been doing everything they can to boost their immune systems. It makes sense; you naturally want to keep yourself safe. But making your immune system stronger doesn’t have to involve taking strange supplements or implementing weird habits. Often, it can be as simple as maintaining a good dental hygiene routine. Read on to learn three simple tips for keeping your mouth – and the rest of your body – healthy.
Your Oral Health Affects Your Immune System
Your mouth is the part of your body that is most exposed to the outside world. So, if your mouth isn’t healthy, it may result in medical issues throughout your whole body. In particular, gum disease has been linked to a higher risk of cardiovascular problems, respiratory infections, and complications from diabetes.
The leading theory behind this connection posits that bacteria from your mouth can enter your bloodstream and wreak havoc on other parts of your body. Your immune system will often focus on fighting the infection in your mouth and ignore other invaders, making you extremely susceptible to illness.
More than 50% of American adults have gum disease to some extent, leaving their immune systems compromised. Luckily, you can fortify your body’s line of defense by maintaining a healthy smile.
3 Tips for Better Overall Health
The easiest way to prevent oral health problems is with prevention. Not only can keeping up with your oral hygiene reduce your risk for severe Covid-19 complications, but it can also lower your long-term dental bills by preventing the likelihood that you’ll need expensive treatments like fillings and gum disease therapy. You can maintain a healthy smile by following three simple tips:
- Commit to brushing your teeth twice a day – If you’re like many people, you might feel too tired in the early morning or late at night to brush your teeth. Even if you’re exhausted, dedicate two minutes twice per day to brushing your teeth.
- Remember to floss every night – It’s even more common to skip flossing. If you don’t floss, though, harmful bacteria and plaque will build up near your gums. Your toothbrush can’t reach these areas, so flossing is the only way to clean them out.
- Visit your dentist twice a year – The American Dental Association recommends seeing your dentist for a checkup and cleaning at least once every six months. Their team can remove accumulated plaque and detect any concerns, like inflamed gums, early on while treatment is still easy.
Invest in Full-Body Wellness
Your oral health works in tandem with your immune system to ensure your whole body remains in great condition. If you’re looking for a way to keep you and your loved ones safe from Covid-19, dedicating yourself to good oral hygiene is a great start!
About the Author
Dr. Nelson Y. Howard is a dentist in Rancho Bernardo, CA with more than 34 years of experience. Since earning his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from UCLA, he has become one of the fewer than 500 dentists in the world to achieve Accreditation in the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry. For more advice on maintaining a healthy smile, visit Dr. Howard’s website or call (858) 451-0550.