“The eyes are the window to the soul.”  Have you ever heard that expression?  How about this one: “The mouth is the window to the body’s overall health.”  It’s true! 

Your oral health is often an indication of your overall health. Because the mouth is normally swarming with bacteria, you have to keep the bacteria under control with daily oral hygiene, such as brushing and flossing. 

If bacteria gets grow out of control, it could lead to periodontitis, a serious gum infection.  If your gums are healthy, bacteria usually don’t enter the bloodstream.  However, if your gums are unhealthy, they can provide a portal for the bacteria to swim right into the bloodstream.  This can cause problems for the rest of your body.

Some of the problems that poor oral health can cause are:

• Cardiovascular disease (several types)
• Premature birth
• Diabetes
• Osteoporosis

I brush and floss my teeth several times a day.  It’s such a basic thing to do to help maintain good health. Here’s what I suggest:

• Brush your teeth twice a day with an ADA-accepted fluoride toothpaste. Replace your toothbrush every three or four months – sooner if the bristles are frayed. A worn toothbrush won't do a good job of cleaning your teeth.
• Floss daily to remove plaque from between your teeth and under the gumline before it can harden into tartar. Once tartar has formed, it can only be removed by a professional cleaning.
• Eat a balanced diet and limit between-meal snacks.
• Visit your dentist regularly for professional cleanings and oral exams.

For children, besides regular brushing and flossing, dental sealants are an excellent way to protect teeth from the harmful bacteria that cause decay. In fact, when used properly, sealants are almost 100% effective!

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