Lately, we’ve all been a little more focused than usual on staying healthy and keeping our immune system strong. You already know the usual tips—get exercise, eat right, and drink plenty of water. But did you know that your oral health plays a significant role in your body’s overall defense mechanisms? It’s true—and people who neglect their oral health may be opening up their body to a whole host of problems related to bacteria, infections, decay, and more. 

Your Mouth and Your Immune System

Your immune system is connected to every part of your body, so if you’re not taking care of a certain part—i.e. your mouth—you may experience health problems everywhere because of it. Think about how everything you eat and drink comes through your mouth before passing into the rest of your body. It makes sense that having a clean mouth would be critical for overall health, right? So if you have a healthy mouth, it will help keep your entire body healthy. 

How to Keep a Cleaner, Healthier Mouth

In order to keep your mouth in tip-top shape, there are a few things you need to do. 

First, start eating better! A good diet that’s full of nutrient-rich foods will keep you healthier overall, thus boosting your immune system from the ground up. But a healthy diet also keeps your mouth in better shape by lowering your sugar intake, which results in less decay-causing plaque. This lowers your risk for things like gum disease, which can cause inflammation and infections that affect your entire body. 

Secondly—and this won’t be a surprise to anyone—maintain a strict brushing and flossing regimen. Food particles that aren’t properly removed from the mouth can result in a buildup of bacteria, which can result in decay. You should be brushing twice a day and flossing 1-2 times a day at a minimum; those with an autoimmune disease or diabetes should brush and floss more often than that. 

Finally, be sure to see your dentist at least twice per year, or more if you already have a health condition that compromises your immune system. Your dentist is your ally when it comes to your oral health and beyond, and he or she can help you take steps to live a healthier life with fewer illnesses. 

Ready to Take Control of Your Oral Health? Call Lecroy Dental Today!

Here at LeCroy Dental, we’re passionate about your overall health—and we know that so much of your body’s natural defense to illness starts with a clean, healthy mouth. Schedule an appointment today and let us be your partner for better oral health!