Are you looking for ways to maintain a healthy smile? Oral health is just as important as physical health. In fact, recent studies have found evidence that oral health is tightly linked to overall wellness. Good oral health can help prevent heart disease, diabetes, and other chronic diseases, and can be an important predictor of health outcomes. If you’re in Bend, Oregon and are looking for ways to boost your oral health and overall wellness, here is a guide to help you get started.
Understanding the Link Between Oral Health and Overall Wellness
Oral health refers to the condition of your gums, teeth, and mouth. You maintain good oral health when your mouth is free from disease or infection. Overall wellness, on the other hand, refers to how healthy you are both physically and mentally. Recent studies have found that oral health is closely related to overall wellness. One study found that people with gum disease are at greater risk for heart disease. Other research has shown a link between poor oral health and diabetes, osteoporosis, and other chronic diseases. These findings highlight the importance of maintaining good oral health to promote overall wellness.
Practical Tips to Boost Oral Health
Thankfully, there are many easy ways you can promote oral health and prevent disease in your mouth. One of the best practices is to maintain good dental hygiene. Disinfect your mouth using a toothbrush twice a day, and don’t forget to floss. You should also visit your dentist for a routine checkup at least once a year, where they can help identify any potential oral health issues and provide the necessary treatment to prevent infection.
Ensuring you eat a balanced diet can also help to improve your oral health. Food items that are rich in vitamins C and D, calcium and zinc help to promote a healthier mouth. You should avoid highly acidic items that can damage your teeth, such as soda, candy, coffee, and lemonade. Try to eat only healthy foods, and drink plenty of water to help rinse out plaque and food particles from your mouth.
Additional Resources for Oral Health and Overall Wellness in Bend
If you live in Bend, there are many resources available for promoting good oral health and overall wellness. The Bend Oral Health Program helps to educate community members about the importance of preventive care for oral health. The program distributes low-cost fluoride treatments to children in schools to help prevent cavities and educate children about the importance of oral health. Bend’s public health department also provides dental screenings and other services to help maintain good oral health.
If you are looking for additional resources to improve overall wellness in Bend, consider joining a yoga or meditation class to help improve your overall health. Walking and hiking are popular activities in the Bend area, and can help improve your physical fitness and overall sense of wellbeing. Bend is also home to a number of fitness centers, gyms, and health food stores where you can seek advice about maintaining overall wellness.
Conclusion
Good oral health is vitally important for maintaining overall wellness. Recent research has found that gum disease and other oral issues can be linked to heart disease, diabetes, and other chronic diseases. Maintaining good dental hygiene and eating a balanced diet are two of the best things you can do to promote good oral health. If you’re in Bend, there are many resources available to help you maintain good oral health and overall wellness. Take advantage of these resources to ensure that you have a healthy and vibrant smile.