Orthodontics: It’s not just about your teeth. It’s about having a healthy mouth.

Think of your mouth, teeth and gums as being part of your digestive and respiratory systems. Your teeth and mouth help with eating, speaking and breathing. Even though your first thought when your teeth are crooked or misaligned might be that you want to LOOK better, it’s equally important that your mouth, teeth and gums contribute to your health. For this reason, your orthodontist and dentist often work together to make sure your teeth are strong and align properly with your jaw.  

What conditions should be present for a healthy mouth? You should have strong teeth, that aren’t misaligned or unevenly spaced, pink, firm gums that aren’t swollen or sore, and a good bite, one that can chew food properly without hurting.

How do you keep your mouth healthy? Though there are conditions that can become issues during a lifetime, most disorders can be avoided by practicing good oral health. Good oral hygiene involves regular dental checkups and a healthy lifestyle. Brushing properly twice a day, drinking plenty of water, eating nutritious foods and flossing daily are all part of a good oral hygiene routine. You should also avoid smoking and chewing tobacco.

What are the signs to look for that signal a visit to a healthcare provider? Here are some of the things to look out for:

• Sores or bumps that don’t go away
• Pain when brushing your teeth
• Frequent bleeding  
• Gaps between your teeth and gums
• Clicking sounds when you open or shut your mouth
• Teeth that don’t come together naturally when you close your mouth
• Loose teeth
• Foul odor

The takeaway here is that we need a healthy mouth for both dental health and whole-body health. The Mayo Clinic calls Oral Health “A Window To Your Overall Health. If you are not sure about your own teeth or mouth, call for a consultation. It’s never too late to get your teeth and mouth back to supporting your overall health!