Want to avoid contracting COVID-19 or another harmful bacterium? Want to see a healthy, beautiful smile when you look in the mirror? Surprisingly, one of the best ways to keep your body’s immune system running at optimal speed is to maintain better oral health. How is this possible? Because the mouth and body are closely connected, when problems develop in one area, you can expect to experience symptoms in the other. Read on to learn more about this link and what you can do to improve your health and wellbeing.
Poor Oral Health = Weak Immune System
You’ve likely heard about the individuals who are considered “at-risk” for contracting COVID-19. These are people who are over the age of 65 and/or who have a compromised immune system. Whether you’re 15, 38, 52, or 75, anyone can improve the state of their overall health by exercising, eating right, and keeping their teeth and gums in optimal condition.
If you weren’t expecting that last factoid to be on the list, you should know that the bacteria and particles that develop in your mouth can easily spread through your bloodstream if left untreated. As a result, your body can experience a multitude of changes and problems, all of which lower your immunity to fighting off infections.
Halitosis (bad breath), gum disease, and cavities all develop as a direct result of bacteria accumulations within your oral cavity. Without proper treatment, you can be faced with everything from a breakdown of the enamel to tooth and bone loss as well as neurological, cardiovascular, and even respiratory disease.
What You Can Do to Stay Healthy
If you want to make sure that your mouth and body remain in the best shape possible, there are several things you can do starting today:
- Brush your teeth for two full minutes twice daily using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. If you are prone to tooth sensitivity or gum disease, inquire about alternative products that help to minimize these common problems.
- Floss between your teeth at least once a day.
- Use an antimicrobial mouthwash to rinse after brushing and flossing.
- Maintain a nutrient-rich, well-balanced diet full of leafy greens, vegetables, fruit, low-fat dairy, and lean protein.
- Minimize your sugar and starch intake to avoid cavities and gum disease.
- Exercise regularly to avoid additional weight gain.
- Quit smoking.
- Find ways to lower your stress levels and relax.
- Keep your six-month dental checkups and cleanings with your local dentist.
Apart from these standard practices, you should also remember to wear a mask while out in public and maintain proper social distancing guidelines. This will ensure you, your smile, and your body is in optimal condition and free of any virus or disease.
About the Practice
At Harrisonburg Family & Cosmetic Dentistry, our team of professionals are going the extra mile to protect both staff and patients. With an abundance of protocols put into place, we also desire for our visitors to have a strong, healthy immune system. One way to achieve this is with optimal oral health. Offering preventive services as well as restorative and emergency care, our team can help you take better care of your teeth and gums, and, in turn, improve your body’s immunity. Visit our website or call (540) 432-6616 to learn more about what you can do to keep your health and wellbeing at its best.