Most of us realize the importance of good oral care and bruising our teeth. It’s the only way to maintain healthy, beautiful teeth that we love to show off to the world. But, many people fail to realize that your oral health impacts you in far more ways than simply a beautiful smile, especially for women. The U.S. Surgeon General Report on Oral Health indicates that good oral health is “a mirror for general health and well-being.”
Unique Oral Health Concerns for Women
Women face many unique concerns that cause more health issues for them than men. This includes oral health concerns such as:
- Tooth decay
- Gum disease
- Canker sores
- Dry mouth
- Tooth loss
Women with periodontal disease, more commonly called gum disease, are at an increased risk of diabetes, respiratory issues, and stroke. A significant association between obesity and periodontal disease has also been determined to affect individuals aged 18 – 34. Research suggests that low intakes of Vitamin C and calcium cause these problems.
Correlation also exists between women who smoke and oral health. Research suggests an increase in oral infections and periodontal disease amongst female smokers. The teeth are more susceptible to gum disease and oral cancer due to a decrease in the blood supply to the oral tissues.
Shocking Gum Disease Numbers
Women must go the extra mile to maintain good oral health due to their unique hormones and the various changes they experience during their lives. Would you be shocked to learn that one out of every four women (aged 30 – 54) suffer from periodontitis, an advanced stage of gum disease? More shocking, the Journal of Dental Research and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention say the numbers are underestimated by as much as 50%!
Gum disease usually doesn’t cause any pain, a primary reason that many women go undiagnosed for so long. It’s not until gum disease reaches an advanced state when there are obvious signs of trouble that women decide that it’s time to visit the dentist. Bt this time, irreversible damage has been done and tooth loss may occur.
The Key to Healthy Teeth
Good oral health care is simple and takes only a few minutes of your day. Brush your teeth twice daily; once in the morning and again before bedtime. Don’t forget to brush the tongue and the back of the teeth to remove bacteria and plaque! Be sure that you floss or use an interdental cleaner to remove particles from between the teeth. Drink plenty of water to hydrate the body but also to prevent dry mouth and the substantial risks that it brings. Visit the dentist or oral hygienist regularly. The American Dental Association recommends twice yearly visits for best results. Carefully choose the foods that you eat as well. Many foods, particularly those with high sugar amounts, damage the teeth in no time.