How straight teeth help you live longer
BY READERS DIGEST
3rd Apr 2022 Wellbeing
People today do not know that in most cases, healthy teeth are synonymous with good health.
Many symptoms of diseases may appear in the mouth, so an oral inspection can uncover other health issues. These issues may include Sjögren’s syndrome, AIDS, and diabetes. It is not surprising because oral bacteria can be linked to health problems such as bacterial pneumonia, stroke, and cardiovascular disease. Additionally, women are more likely to have premature births and babies with low birth rates if there are signs of periodontitis.
A study conducted by Community Dentistry and Oral Epidemiology journal shed light on the correlation between healthy teeth and good health. It looked at people who had 20 teeth or more at the age of 70 and those with less than 20 teeth. It was found that those who had more than 20 teeth when they reach the age of 70 had a higher life expectancy.
As it turns out, your oral health is at its best when your teeth are aligned and straight. We consulted local Vancouver orthodontist Dr. Loo who explained to us a few of the reasons why straight teeth can improve your life expectancy.
- Easy cleaning - the most obvious reason to have straight and aligned teeth is that it is easier to clean. If your teeth are easier to clean, then it would be easier to have a better standard of oral health. Flossing and brushing would also be an easier task which is crucial for maintaining a healthy smile. Misaligned teeth have a higher likelihood of food being stuck in places that are difficult for your toothbrush to reach. This easy cleaning makes good oral health more accessible which also impacts overall health. Good oral health can affect your entire life.
- Protection of saliva - Your saliva functions better when you have straight teeth. as you may know, having healthy saliva is one of the best defenses you can have against viruses and bacteria. Your saliva neutralizes harmful organisms with which it comes into contact. Your saliva is able to neutralize threats that can harm your teeth. Another important function of saliva is its protection against bacteria by helping to degrade their membranes so that they will not grow. Saliva stops bacteria from lingering in the mouth so that they cannot make their way into your digestive system.
- Plaque prevention - If you have straight teeth it means that you would have an easier time cleaning them. A cleaner mouth means that there is less plaque. A healthy mouth means that you would not develop dental plaque. Plaque is bacteria that forms in the mouth in a thin film on your teeth' surface. If plaque is left for a long period of time, it can leave to the destruction of your enamel. This is why it is essential to brush and floss regularly. Flossing and brushing are made easier when you have straight teeth.
- Healthy gums - As we have already established straight teeth that are properly cared for can lead to improved oral health. The gums are probably as important as the teeth. We must not only think of the teeth in our oral health practices but also the gums. This is because the gums are exposed to the outside world, but it is organic material. Bacterium loves to reside on the gums so if this is left to fester, it can reduce your oral health. You can develop serious infections such as periodontitis and gingivitis. Harmful bacteria from the gums can also enter the bloodstream leading to disease and infection. Those who have a weakened immune system are highly susceptible.
- Discomfort - If your teeth are out of alignment, it can place even more pressure on your chewing muscles and your jaw. Crooked teeth can affect your entire life because you may feel uncomfortable smiling and have a social life that is subpar. Many people who have crooked teeth suffer from a lack of confidence. Having straight teeth can influence many areas of your life.
- Nutrition - Perhaps the best benefit of having straight teeth is that it is easier to chew your food. When you have straight teeth you can also make more efficient and easier bites. Chewing your food properly can impact your entire digestive system. It is quite beneficial to properly chew your food. When you chew your food efficiently your digestive system will do less work because the food is properly chewed in your mouth.
Conclusion
It is important to protect your mouth for proper oral health which influences, your overall health. Straight teeth are one of the ways that you can improve your oral health. Aside from the social benefits and confidence, you can gain from having a winning smile, it is also beneficial to your health in a myriad of ways.
Always be aware of harmful bacteria that like to reside in the mouth. There is no substitute for brushing and flossing despite what type of teeth you have. If you have crooked teeth there are a number of treatments options available, so you should check with your dentist to explore them.
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