What do your dog’s teeth and your own pearly whites have in common? In dogs, humans, cats, hippos, and any other animal with teeth, proper dental care is a must in order to keep your teeth not only looking good but functioning as they should. Recently, Mayo Clinic, the Journal of the American Dental Association (JADA), and other associations reasserted something that we have all been taught for years: a healthy body includes having healthy teeth. Whether you think of it or not, the overall health of your teeth has a big determination on how healthy the rest of your body is. When your oral health is lacking, more than likely your overall health will suffer as well. So what does this mean? Simply put, be sure to brush and floss your teeth on a daily basis and don’t neglect Fido’s teeth either. Studies have shown that, just as in humans, good oral health can ensure that your best furry friend lives a longer and healthier life.
Is It Really That Easy?
Many may think that taking proper care of your teeth can’t be as simple as daily brushing and flossing. However, keeping up with your oral health doesn’t require strenuous work, effort, or time. Keeping your teeth, gums, and tongue clean along with flossing and routine visits to the dentist is really all one needs to have a healthy smile. Brushing after every meal is ideal but in some cases it isn’t a possibility. In the end the important part is that a majority of the bacteria housed within the mouth is gotten rid of through brushing and flossing. Patients should also ensure that the mouth remains properly hydrated as dehydration leaves the mouth susceptible to bacteria growth. At the same time, dentists and veterinarians alike have determined that what we eat and drink too plays a role in the health of your teeth (or your dog’s teeth). Eating a few pieces of candy won’t rot your teeth in an instant, but a consistently unhealthy diet high in refined carbohydrates and sugars can cause tooth decay which may lead to tooth loss. In short: eat a diet of mainly whole foods, keep your mouth hydrated by drinking water, and follow the daily practices of brushing and flossing. Dentists obviously play an important role in the health of your teeth. If you ever run into a problem that requires more assistance than you can provide, don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment with Drs. Ken & Marnie Collins. Routine visits to the dentist are a must to ensure that your smile remains healthy as sometimes there are problems beneath the surface that aren’t always detected by the untrained eye. Call us at (509) 532-1111 in Spokane, to schedule an appointment or if you have any questions.
