A person’s mouth plays a crucial role in their lifestyle. It’s the first step into your body’s digestive system and can also dictate your metabolism. It does this by secreting saliva, which contains digestive enzymes that help break down food.
Saliva also contains electrolytes, which help keep you hydrated, and minerals that can help remineralize your teeth. Your mouth is also home to millions of good and bad bacteria. The good bacteria help protect your teeth and gums from harmful bacteria, which can cause cavities and gum disease. However, all of these can be sabotaged and halted because of a single dental infection.
Dental Infection
A dental infection is an infection of the mouth, teeth, gums, or jawbone. Several things can cause it
- decay
- trauma
- surgery
- poor oral hygiene
The most common symptom of dental infection is pain. Other symptoms include:
- swelling
- redness
- tenderness
- pus discharge
A dental infection can spread to other body parts if left untreated and cause serious health complications. Therefore, it’s essential to see a dentist as soon as possible if you think you may have an infection. Treatment will vary depending on the severity of the infection and may include antibiotics, pain medication, or surgery. Thankfully, there are many ways to prevent such an infection from happening. One way is through implants.
Implants
When you lose teeth, you lose function and put yourself at a higher risk for developing infections. Additionally, empty pockets on your teeth can be a haven for harmful bacteria. A single wound there can lead to an infection. Thankfully, you can cover that part with an implant. Dental implants are artificial teeth surgically implanted into your jawbone to replace missing teeth. They’re made of titanium, a biocompatible metal that fuses with your jawbone over time. This helps to keep the implant secure and stable. It can also help improve your appearance and self-esteem while also reducing your risk of infection.
Good Dental Hygiene
Your first defense against any infection is practicing good dental hygiene. This includes brushing your teeth twice daily, flossing daily, and using mouthwash. You should also see your dentist regularly for professional cleanings and checkups. During these appointments, your dentist can remove any tartar or plaque buildup on your teeth that you may have missed. They’ll also be able to catch any early signs of decay or disease so they can be treated before they become serious.
There are also some other things you should try out to improve your dental hygiene, such as oil pulling.
Oil Pulling
Oil pulling is an ancient practice used for centuries to clean teeth and gums. It involves swishing oil around your mouth for 20 minutes, then spitting it out. This helps remove bacteria and plaque from your teeth while freshening your breath.
You can use oil for oil pulling, but coconut oil is the most popular choice because of its antibacterial and antimicrobial properties.
Eating a Balanced Diet
What you eat plays a significant role in your oral health. A balanced diet of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains can help keep your teeth and gums healthy. It can also help reduce your risk of developing cavities and gum disease.
On the other hand, sugary and acidic foods can damage your teeth. They can cause tooth decay and erode your enamel. Therefore, limiting your intake of these foods and drinks is essential.
Wear a Mouthguard
If you play sports or participate in activities with a risk of injury to the mouth, it’s essential to wear a mouthguard. A mouthguard is a soft plastic covering your teeth and gums to protect them from impact. It can help reduce your risk of fractures, tooth loss, and other dental injuries. Wearing a mouthguard can also help prevent infections by keeping your teeth and gums safe from bacteria.
Choose the Right Toothbrush
When it comes to preventing infection, not all toothbrushes are created equal. A manual toothbrush is fine for most people, but if you have braces or other dental appliances, you may need an electric toothbrush. Electric toothbrushes are more effective at removing plaque and tartar from teeth than manual brushes. They can also be easier to use if you have arthritis or other conditions that make it difficult to brush your teeth effectively.
Use Fluoride Toothpaste
Fluoride is a mineral that helps strengthen your teeth. It’s found in many foods and water sources. Using fluoride toothpaste can help prevent cavities and tooth decay. It can also help remineralize your teeth after an acidic attack. This is important because acids produced by bacteria can break down your tooth enamel, which puts you at a higher risk for infection.
These are just a few of the ways you can avoid dental infections. By taking steps to protect your teeth and gums, you can keep your mouth healthy and reduce your risk of developing a severe infection.
