Most of us think that taking care of our teeth is about having a great smile and avoiding the discomfort of a toothache. Having a great smile and avoiding toothaches are valid and important reasons for maintaining a good oral health program, there are three other equally strong reasons to consider.
First, dental health is part of your overall health. Second, choosing good dental care is a wise investment of your time and financial resources.
Finally, your emotional well-being is influenced by how you think and feel about yourself. Your smile is a big part of your self image. Let's examine each of these areas more thoroughly.
Good Physical Health Equals Good Dental Health
It is easy to forget that your teeth, gums, and mouth are essential parts of your physical body. Periodontal disease, bone and gum loss, and infections all affect the overall picture of your physical
health. The ability to chew your food well helps digestion and reduces stress on
the gastrointestinal system.
Like any physical system, each part of the body plays a role in the overall health of the system; taking care of your teeth and gums is a part of an intentional plan for physical health. In collaboration with
your dentistry team, you can create a dental plan that will contribute to your overall health plan.
A Good Dental Plan is a Wise Investment
There are two important resources that you use and allocate in your everyday life: your time and your money. When it comes to your dental care, they are closely related.
The time you take everyday to invest in your dental health is also an investment in your financial health. When treatment is necessary, dentistry is also an investment in your financial future.
Proper treatment today prevents more costly complications and uncomfortable
problems tomorrow.
For those who seek to maintain their dental health for life, it is a wise investment to get the most value from the
knowledge and skills your dentist and good dental care offers you.
Good Dental Health Equals Emotional Well-Being
How you feel and think about yourself is an important part of your emotional
well-being, and a pleasant smile plays a big role in this. In addition, when you
take an active role in caring for yourself, it also contributes to your overall sense of competence in managing your life and maintaining a positive lifestyle. The habit of good dental care and regular hygiene examinations reinforces taking positive steps for yourself in other areas of your life.
Smile because good dental care can provide you with innovative and effective ways to create and maintain a pleasant smile that you feel good about. When it comes to feeling good about yourself and your smile, dentistry offers many
exciting and effective options.
By Brian DesRoches, PhD
