There has been research for quite some time on the difference between men and women when it comes to health concerns. Women are more likely to have regular checkups every year, which might be due to the number of health concerns that have to be caught early for greatest treatment success (such as certain forms of cancer).
As it turns out, the same results have been found in a study looking at oral health. When it comes to dental checkups and periodontal treatments, women are faring far better than their male counterparts.
According to the survey results, of the 800 participants between the ages of 18 and 19, the female respondents were more likely to understand proper oral health, go to regular checkups and attend suggested follow-ups. They were also less likely to have indicators of periodontal disease.
Why You Should Be Getting Regular Dental Checkups
Teeth are important. They help us eat, give us a bright smile and impact appearance. They are also a major factor in health. Bacterial growth can cause major illnesses, such as respiratory infections, pneumonia, and even MRSA.
Regular checkups can catch issues early and help clean your mouth more thoroughly than just brushing and individual oral care alone.
Proper Maintenance For Your Mouth
Other than getting an annual checkup and cleaning, the best thing you can do for your oral health is just basic care. Some tips to keeping your mouth clean include:
- Regularly change your toothbrushes or electric toothbrush heads. Bacteria can grow on old toothbrushes, and bristles can become so worn they no longer clean effectively. Changing them out every few months can prevent this.
- Brush twice a day and floss once a day. Make sure you are getting the floss along the sides and bottom of the teeth, not just between them.
- Brush along the gum line. This can have a huge impact on your gum health in the long term.
- Use an antibacterial mouthwash once or twice a day.
- If you have been sick, replace your toothbrush.
- Use antacids if you have a history of chronic reflux. Acids can build on the teeth and eat through the enamel or cause gum erosion.
- Take care of tooth pain or problems early. If you are hurting, uncomfortable or just suspect something is wrong, see your dentist ASAP. Small problems can grow into big problems fast.
Find out more at Radiance Family & Cosmetic Dentistry
