Why You Should Be Thankful for a Healthy Smile This Year

If you were to answer the question, “What are you thankful for this year,” you might likely say your family, friends, health, and maybe even your job. But one thing you should add to that list is your smile. By maintaining good oral health year-round, you can expect to enjoy all the foods you love and remain confident in your appearance. Read on to hear from a dentist in Odessa who explains why your smile is something to be thankful for each and every year.    

The Importance of Good Oral Health

Throughout the year, you are encouraged to visit your dentist twice for regular dental checkups and cleanings. It is during these appointments that they check for signs of tooth decay, gum disease, and oral cancer as well as perform a professional cleaning to remove hardened plaque and tartar. Without these visits, you can become more susceptible to cavities, gingivitis, and bad breath. Not to mention the host of health-related issues that can develop as a result of poor oral hygiene.

By maintaining good oral health, you have the opportunity to enjoy life to its fullest. Individuals who live with decayed and damaged teeth often feel self-conscious about their appearance and develop weakened immune systems because of the problems developing inside the mouth. Choosing to be proactive about your teeth and gums will ensure they remain firmly in place for longer, allowing you to spend your time and money on the things and people you love instead of on unnecessary restorative dental treatments.

Benefits of a Healthy Smile

While you might assume that having healthy teeth are only good for chewing purposes, there are actually far more benefits than you realize, some of which include:

• Your ability to speak with clarity. When teeth are missing, your speech can be hindered, making it more difficult to pronounce certain words. However, with a full set of healthy teeth, you do not have to worry, as your lips, tongue, and teeth will properly interact with each other to ensure proper pronunciation when saying your consonants and vowels.
• Your facial structure remains full. When you chew, your teeth apply pressure to your jawbone, allowing it to remain strong and durable. However, should you lose one or more teeth, your ability to chew becomes more difficult, resulting in bone loss over time. By taking care of your teeth, you can continue to maintain full functionality while eating and enjoy a fuller, more youthful appearance.
• Your teeth keep saliva in. While your lips still serve as a barrier against saliva running out of your mouth, your teeth help in this effort. Without them, you have to make a more conscious effort to swallow before opening your mouth and allowing the fluid to run out. Not to mention, your teeth allow you to chew adequately, which keeps your salivary glands working as they should.
• You Safeguard Your Overall Health: Chewing with only your gums can lead to TMJ or gum disease, and your body will be less likely to absorb necessary nutrients. However, a healthy smile means you are less likely to experience some of these most common dental problems that result in a visit to your emergency dentist in Odessa.

Probably the most important benefit is the ability to smile with confidence. The time and effort you put into maintaining a healthy smile will go a long way to enjoying a better quality of life for years to come.

About the Author
Dr. Stephen Boyles graduated from Texas A&M University Baylor College of Dentistry in May 2016 before joining his father, Dr. Franklin Boyles, in his practice at Boyles General Dentistry in June 2016. As a family-operated practice, Dr. Stephen and his father combine their unique talents to provide patients of all ages safe and effective dental care. If you are looking for a dental office to call home, visit our website or call (432) 366-0896.