Many people underestimate the importance of healthy teeth. At New Look Dental, a dentist in Kelowna, we strive to educate our patients on the effect that their oral health can have on both their overall health and on their self-esteem. Keeping gum disease, tooth decay, and other oral health diseases at bay is a crucial part of staying healthy and happy.
The Connection Between Oral Health and Overall Health
Because oral and overall health are handled by two different health care professionals, many people assume that they are quite separate and distinct. Your teeth, however, play a vital role in your general health. The mouth is the main entry point in the body for all sorts of bacteria and foreign substances. Healthy teeth with strong enamel help prevent bacteria from gaining a foothold in your body and creating a serious infection. Teeth that are decayed, cracked, or otherwise damaged make it easier for bacteria to grow and proliferate.
Unhealthy teeth generally lead to unhealthy gums as well, which are likewise associated with a host of health problems. Recent research has demonstrated a strong link between gum disease and health conditions such as type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, cerebrovascular disease, and Alzheimer’s disease. It seems that the inflammation and infection caused by gum disease can contribute to both the development and the progression of these conditions. Gum disease has also been linked to complications during pregnancy, such as low birth weight and premature birth.
Going for a regular checkup with a general dentist in Kelowna is key to ensuring good dental health and maintaining good overall health as well.
Healthy Teeth and a Confident Smile Go Hand-In-Hand
Though the negative health effects caused by unhealthy teeth aren’t always visible, the changes to your smile and general appearance are. One of the main ways that tooth decay and gum disease affect those who suffer from them is by lowering their confidence and self-esteem. When our teeth don’t look healthy, we may be more reluctant to smile and to socialize with others. This can have a significantly negative impact on a person’s self-image and self-esteem.
A cosmetic dentist in Kelowna will address both your oral health issues and your cosmetic concerns. After treating the source of the problem, they may recommend cosmetic and restorative treatments such as teeth whitening, veneers, bridges, and crowns. Addressing dental health issues and restoring the look of your teeth will give you much more confidence to flash those pearly whites.
Keep Your Smile Healthy by Visiting Your Dentist in Kelowna
By practicing good oral hygiene at home and visiting your dentist on a regular basis, you can enjoy great dental health and all of the oral health and self-esteem benefits that go along with it. If you’re looking for a general or cosmetic dentist in Kelowna to help keep your teeth healthy and your smile looking great, then look no further than New Look Dental.
To schedule your first appointment with a general and cosmetic dentist in West Kelowna at New Look Dental, just contact us today.