Dentist encourages improved oral hygiene in the new year

The start of 2018 brings new year resolutions that for many include kick starting a healthier lifestyle. One local doctor is encouraging the community to make improvements to oral hygiene.

“Many times we have quite a few patients that tell me near the end of the year that they’re going to get on track and it’s amazing how many really do,” Dr. Daniel Castro said, a local dentist.

Dr. Castro said periodontal disease, infections surround the teeth, is a big problem affiliated with other illnesses.

Symptoms include bleeding from gums, malodor, abscess or puss, and if your teeth move around. Periodontal disease can lead to tooth extraction, Castro said.

The Mayo Clinic reports oral health may contribute to diseases like cardiovascular disease. Periodontitis, inflammation of the gums, has been linked to premature birth and low birth weight.

Certain conditions like diabetes and Alzheimer’s can lead to worsening oral health.

While more people are becoming aware of oral hygiene through online resources, Castro said it may also create a harmful impact.

“Unfortunately, the bad side is that people think they can maintain or treat it themselves. Those are scary scenarios that can have really bad, devastating effects,” Castro said.

Castro said dentists can detect major warning signs in the mouth that can easily be missed.

“It’s not your grandfather’s dentistry anymore. There’s a lot to make the patients comfortable, technological advancements are great and really beneficial for the patient,” Castro said.

Best practices for patients include monitoring what you eat, brushing and flossing two to three times daily and visiting a dentist every six months for a thorough cleaning.