Health Benefits of Brushing Daily Ever since we were little children, our parents reminded us (and perhaps forced us) to brush our teeth regularly. Most of us have carried that habit with us to adulthood, but do we honestly know why brushing is so important? See if you know all these reasons:
Keeps the Mouth Clean Alright, this one is a bit obvious. Brushing is the best way to eliminate buildups of tartar and plaque, which can lead to gum disease and gingivitis. Also, not brushing one’s teeth is an excellent way to contract bad breath. Lastly, we often forget that the mouth is, quite literally, a gaping portal into the body. Brushing your teeth can neutralize and kill harmful bacteria that could potentially enter your body and make you sick.
Prevents Respiratory Diseases Yes, you read that right. Brushing can actually help prevent diseases like pneumonia and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. How, you might ask? Well, periodontal disease is an infection that occurs when bacteria from plaque gets in the teeth. Once the bacteria begin reproducing, some of it can find its way down your windpipe and suddenly, you have a respiratory disease. Which, it’s worth adding, can be fatal. So keep brushing those teeth!
Maintain a Healthy Weight Have you ever tried to eat or drink something just after having brushed your teeth? Gross, right? Well, your brain processes this fact and understands that brushing your teeth is a signal that food consumption is over. If you get in the habit of brushing your teeth after every meal and before you go to bed, you’ll find you are less inclined to go searching for snacks in between meal times.
Healthy Babies Studies have shown that pregnant women with healthy teeth and gums also have healthy babies. Who would have thought? So to avoid premature births and unhealthy newborns, make sure to keep brushing throughout your pregnancy. If you have questions about your dental health during your pregnancy, feel free to make an appointment at a dentist in Mt. Pleasant, Michigan.
Better Sex Life This might seem like a cause for incredulity, but it is also a proven benefit of brushing. Both British and Israeli researchers have performed studies showing that a significant percentage of men with erectile dysfunction also had gum disease. Once again, a buildup of bacteria in the mouth increases the chances of it entering the body and then the bloodstream, which can contribute to erectile problems. Additionally, gum disease and periodontal disease have also been linked to a lower sperm count. Nobody likes having cavities or any of the other unpleasant consequences that come from poor oral hygiene. However, hopefully this article has also shown you a couple of the lesser known benefits that come from brushing your teeth.
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