You have been reminded since you could walk about the importance of brushing your teeth twice daily. Don’t forget to add your daily flossing. Keeping plaque and cavities at bay has been second nature all of our lives, but it turns out that keeping your mouth clean is about more than aesthetics. Your pearly whites affect more than sporting a pristine, white smile. Your entire body depends on you keeping your teeth and gums a priority.

Even if you are adamant about prioritizing your oral health, there is nothing more thorough than a routine cleaning by your Spring, Texas, general dentist. No one is perfect – and we all miss some food particles or plaque here and there. It’s important to consult the professionals – the best general dentist in Spring, TX – to ensure your oral health is the best it can be. Whether it be a routine cleaning or a general checkup, visiting your Spring general dentist is a must if you want to protect your overall wellness.

Your Oral Health Affects More Than Your Teeth and Gums

Your mouth is a gateway to the rest of your body – thus, that is why it is so important to brush, floss, and keep bad bacteria to a minimum. Although a daily oral routine may seem to care for only your teeth and gums, preventative dental care in Spring, Texas, is about caring for your entire well-being.

Neglecting your oral health will not only impact your picture-perfect smile, but it can increase your rest of developing serious health conditions:

Cancer

Surprisingly, there is a link between gum disease and the development of blood, kidney, and pancreatic cancers. This further exemplifies the connection between oral health and the rest of your bodily organs and the danger of bad bacteria overrunning your mouth.

Dementia

Gingivitis or gum disease can cause bacteria to travel through the bloodstream, which can affect your nerve channels and accelerate the death of brain cells. This causes memory loss and an increased risk of developing Alzheimer’s or dementia.

Diabetes

If you have gum disease, your blood sugar levels may become harder to keep under control. This can lead to the development of diabetes, making your twice-annual visit to your Spring, TX, general dentist imperative.

Heart Disease

Not taking good care of your oral health can lead to gum disease, which can cause bacteria to travel through the bloodstream to your heart. This increases the risk of your arteries becoming narrow and the development of heart disease. Staying heart-healthy means preventative oral care.

Kidney Disease

If you develop gum disease, your immune system may not be in the best shape. A weakened immune system can lead to infections throughout the body, including your kidneys. The bacteria in your mouth is filtered through your kidneys every time you eat or drink, making them susceptible to infection. Kidney disease can lead to cardiovascular disease or even kidney failure.

Pregnancy Complications

The hormonal changes that a pregnant woman experiences can increase her risk of developing dental issues, including gingivitis and gum disease. There is a link between a pregnant mother experiencing gum disease, premature birth, and low birth weight, making preventative dental care in Spring, Texas, vital during pregnancy – for both mom and baby.

Prioritize Preventative Dental Care In Spring, Texas

Although developing a solid oral care routine at home is important, ensuring that you visit your Spring, TX, preventative care dentist is just as imperative. If you want to stay on top of your oral health – while lowering your risk of serious health conditions – you can schedule an appointment with the best general dentists in Spring at Stephens & Gatewood Dentistry. They are experienced and knowledgeable, and they pride themselves on enhancing the oral health and overall wellness of their patients.

Call (281) 320-2000 today to book an appointment with a preventative care dentist at Stephens & Gatewood Dentistry. We have two locations in Spring, Texas – Cypresswood and Auburn Lakes – for your convenience. Let us help you keep the health of your teeth, gums, and entire body a priority!