The old saying goes, if you look good, you feel good. But more often and importantly, when you feel good, you look good. Many first impressions are made with a smile, and it is not only pearly whites and pink gums that make friends. Your mouth is the window to your overall health. With some infections and diseases often showing their first signs in your mouth taking care of your dental hygiene is more important than some realize.

Infections
Your mouth is bustling with bacteria, no matter how often you brush or use mouthwash. Bacteria is all around; the food you put in, talking, let alone kissing your significant other or pet(!). Regular teeth brushing and flossing helps wan the bacteria activity in your mouth and keep your gums healthy.

The saliva you naturally produce contains enzymes that helps wash out these harmful bacteria. However when saliva production is low due to medications, aging or both, and when a person is lax with brushing their teeth and flossing, bacteria can form and enter the bloodstream, which can lead to very critical health conditions.

Prevention
Opening your mouth to a dental professional is like giving them your password to your personal health records. Dentists can tell whether or not you are a smoker, have diabetes – even if you are in the beginning stages of osteoporosis. The first stages of bone loss show up in your teeth and jawbone. Diabetics are more prone to dry mouth and oral infections. If you notice something in your mouth that has gone awry get it checked out before it becomes serious.

Visiting a dentist regularly will help in the early detection of what may become a serious problem. Caring for your teeth with regular brushing and flossing will prevent the buildup of bacteria on the teeth and gums.

Aesthetics
Having good dental hygiene is not only important to your overall health, it’s also important for your self-confidence. There’s nothing like a brown, plaque-toothed smile, or better yet, a toothless smile. Or going to a meeting knowing you didn’t brush your teeth and will be asked to speak. Taking care of yourself will improve your self-confidence, which in turn will improve all aspects of your life. Making a behavior change now by becoming self-aware is an investment for your healthy future.

A smile is not just for you, it’s for everyone who receives it.

For more information about dental health and dental insurance, visit http://www.dentalinsurance.org.