Although Blue Wave is an orthodontics office, we know that good oral health is more than straight teeth. Let’s go over the definition of oral health, and what good oral health means in today’s blog.
Hundreds of national dental organizations including the American Dental Association have accepted the 2016 definition of oral health. “Oral health is multifaceted and includes the ability to speak, smile, smell, taste, touch, chew, swallow, and convey a range of emotions through facial expressions with confidence and without pain, discomfort, and disease of the craniofacial complex,” reads the definition.
This definition is much more than the absence of disease. The functionality, comfort, and self-esteem of a healthy mouth and smile is also a part of this.
Dr. Randy Feldman says, “Managing good oral health is a blend of what you can do, and what professionals do. Your dentists, hygienists, orthodontists, periodontists, and other dental providers help to keep the teeth and mouth healthy and functional.”
So, what can you do on your own? Brushing and flossing twice a day, using the right brush and changing it every few months, eating right, avoiding tobacco products, and making and keeping your dental appointments are just some of the things you should do.
Having your dental office inspect your teeth and mouth twice a year, or as prescribed is also very important. Once plaque sets in, it has to be professionally removed. If referrals are made for periodontal care, those appointments are also critical to maintaining healthy soft tissue and jaw structures.
Dr. Ernest McDowell adds, “As orthodontists, we can inspect your child’s bite by age 7 to determine if there are any potential bite problems that can be corrected early. That helps to avoid costly and extensive care at later ages.” He goes on to state, “Not only can a corrected smile help with self esteem, but it can help you to speak properly, and to properly floss and brush.”
Yes, it “takes a village” of dental professional to make sure nothing is neglected and all teeth, bite, jaw, smile etc are evaluated and treated per their needs! Good oral health begins before the first baby tooth emerges, and is necessary for your entire life. Through modern medicine, many people are living longer these days. We advise you to protect your teeth, gums, and soft tissue of the mouth. It’s always less expensive to maintain good oral health than to try to fix it later. Not to dwell on the negative, but not everything can be fixed. Oral Health is important to overall health and setting a good example for your children is also a great idea. If an orthodontic visit in Tampa Bay is something you are looking to do, please schedule your free consultation today.
