How Oral Health Affects Your Immune System
February 11, 2025
The mouth is the portal to a lot of our joys in life. According to our dentist in North Charleston, SC, intricate oral and periodontal dental care enables us to breathe fresh air, eat delectable meals, remain hydrated, communicate with friends and family, and even enjoy what we eat.
However, you may not be aware that the mouth is constantly brimming with active microorganisms. These bacteria are considered “healthy” bacteria that help guard the mouth against harm and threats from the outside world. By neutralizing toxic acids and dissolving food, saliva also helps to protect the mouth.
Your mouth is one of the main entry points for germs and viruses. Bacteria can enter the mouth, throat, lungs, teeth, or even gums, where they can spread to other parts of the body and cause more severe diseases.
What can you do to maintain a clean smile and prevent the accumulation of plaque and bacteria on your teeth and gums? You may improve your at-home dental hygiene and combat mouth microorganisms by following a few straightforward measures.
Steps For Better Dental Health
Brush Your Teeth
Brush your teeth at least twice a day for two minutes. Using fluoride toothpaste for two minutes in the morning and at night will strengthen your teeth, remove food particles, and eliminate the bacteria that cause tooth decay and gum disease.
Floss Your Teeth
It would be best to floss at least once daily because it effectively cleans tooth surfaces that brushing alone cannot reach. Daily flossing is also essential to a healthy at-home oral care regimen.
Use a Mouthwash
Add mouthwash to your oral hygiene regimen. After flossing, we advise that you rinse your mouth with an antimicrobial mouthwash. This can help remove food particles that were removed when you flossed. It also eliminates bacteria that are still present in your mouth.
Healthy Diet
Eat a nutritious diet free of simple carbs and sugars. Try to limit your sugary meals and beverages, as well as items like crackers and potato chips that are high in refined carbs. The reason for this is that the bacteria that cause cavities and gum disease love both starch and sugar.
Maintain a Strong Immune System With the Help of a Dentist in North Charleston, SC
Maintaining adequate dental health is crucial if you want to strengthen your immune system and prevent illnesses caused by common viruses and bacteria. To book your oral examination in North Rivers, get in touch with us.