Are you making your dental health a priority?
For many patients, proper oral care can seem tedious, annoying, or simply unimportant. This apathetic attitude toward dental care is clear when you look at hygiene habits among U.S adults.
According to the ‘Delta Dental Oral Health and Well-Being’ survey, around 30% of adults aren’t brushing the recommended two times per day. Things look even bleaker when you look at flossing habits among Americans. The survey found that nearly 20% of adults never floss!
Unfortunately, many patients don’t realize the true importance of their smile until it is too late. Neglecting proper dental care can result in severe tooth decay and periodontal disease, which will eventually lead to tooth loss.
Don’t take your smile for granted — here’s a round-up of the top reasons our Herman Family Dentistry patients should take their dental health seriously.
Top Reasons to Prioritize Oral Care
- Appearance: One of the most obvious reasons to take care of your dental health is the look of your smile. Your smile is one of the first features that others notice and is important for first impressions. According to a survey from the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, 48% of adults think a smile is the most memorable feature after meeting someone for the first time.
- Nutrition and Digestive Health: Your dental health is actually a crucial part of the digestive process. When you chew foods, you begin the first step of digestion by absorbing their nutrients. If you’re unable to properly chew foods, the larger chunks of food can put more pressure on the digestive system. Patients who have difficulty with chewing may also end up staying away from hard nutritious foods in favor of less nutritious soft foods.
- Overall Wellness: Poor dental health has been linked to numerous systemic conditions. For example, gum disease has been linked to heart disease, Alzheimer’s disease, and diabetes. Maintaining proper oral care will help keep your smile healthy, which, in turn, will benefit your overall health.
- Happiness and Self-Confidence: Having a smile that you feel proud of can make a world of difference for your self-confidence and overall quality of life. A study published in General Hospital Psychiatry found that patients with multiple dental conditions had a higher prevalence of depression than those with good oral health.
Contact Herman Family Dentistry
Don’t wait to address your dental concerns! Here at Herman Family Dentistry, you smile is our number one priority. Contact our office today to schedule your next appointment with Dr. Eric Herman.