Most people start learning about oral hygiene before they learn to read. Brushing twice a day, flossing, and regular dental visits were (hopefully) a part of your life growing up. You know good oral hygiene is important, but it is also easy to become lax in that routine when life gets hectic. If you find yourself skipping important aspects of your oral hygiene routine, then it is a good time to refresh your understanding of the benefits that come with good oral hygiene.

Keep your teeth looking good

Maintaining a good oral hygiene routine can help your teeth look their best. Brushing and using mouthwash regularly can help minimize staining that can come from certain types of food and drink. Good habits like brushing and flossing regularly can also help prevent the buildup of plaque and tartar. If you allow plaque to build up on your teeth, it will cause your teeth to look dirty and will eventually harden into tartar. Some people seem to get plaque buildup quickly. If that is you, then you have to be even more diligent with your oral care to keep this from happening. Teeth that are white and healthy look much better than teeth that are stained and unhealthy. Good oral hygiene is one of the most important elements needed to keep your teeth looking good.

Keep your teeth healthy

Good oral hygiene day in and day out is an essential part of keeping your teeth healthy. Brushing and flossing regularly are the cornerstones for keeping your teeth free from cavities and your gums free from disease. Cavities can cause pain and can lead to rotting teeth if left untreated. Gum disease can also lead to pain and tooth loss. True oral health means that your teeth and gums are in good condition. Proper oral hygiene will prevent many of the problems that come along with cavities and gum disease.

Protect your overall health

The health of your mouth is connected to your overall health. Serious gum disease or infection in your mouth can spread and lead to serious health conditions. Health conditions that can be linked to poor oral health include cardiovascular disease, pneumonia, low birth weight, diabetes, and several others. These conditions can lead to much more than a dentist visit. You can find yourself in poor overall health if you allow gum disease or an oral infection to go untreated. The beginning stages of gum disease can usually be reversed at home by improving your oral health routine. For more serious gum disease or infections you need to schedule an appointment with your dentist. Staying on track with a good oral hygiene routine will typically be enough to keep gum disease from developing or recurring.

The benefits of good oral hygiene go far beyond fresh breath and clean teeth. It will help your teeth stay healthy and looking good. Your dedication to good oral hygiene can also have an impact on your overall health. Being consistent with brushing, flossing, and visiting your dentist will help you look and feel your best.