Taking Care of Your Teeth Can Keep You Young

It’s easy to not think about getting older when we’re young, but as each birthday passes, we start to become more and more aware of how the years have affected our health, our appearance, and many other things. However, it’s not all bad news. In fact, your dentist in Rocky Mount has some new information about how dental health relates to the aging process. 

Brushing Your Teeth Can Slow Aging

As unbelievable as it sounds, new research from scientist Andrew Steele suggests that taking care of your oral health throughout your life can slow the aging process. How can this be? Well, there’s already a connection between oral health and overall health, particularly when it comes to gum disease and the inflammation that goes with it. 

How Gum Disease Affects Health

Many studies show a strong correlation between gum disease and an increased risk for some health problems including heart disease and dementia. Gum disease occurs when there’s a buildup of bacteria in the mouth that causes an infection in the gum tissue. In the early stages, gum disease can be treated by your dentist in Rocky Mount. However, the longer gum disease goes without intervention, the more severe it becomes and can reach a point where it can no longer be cured. This will cause the body to operate in a constant state of inflammation. Inflammation can reduce how well your immune system works and put you more at risk for age-related disease. 

Tooth Loss

Gum disease can also lead to tooth loss, among other things. Tooth loss is concerning for many reasons, including inhibiting what you can chew and how you look, and it can even weaken the jaw bone. The good news is that there are many restorative dentistry options available to help replace lost teeth, such as dentures and implants. 

How Dentistry Can Slow Aging

The best thing you can do for your oral health and overall health now and as you get older is to take excellent care of your teeth. This includes: 

• Brushing your teeth twice a day
• Flossing once a day
• Limiting sugary and acidic foods
• Seeing your dentist in Rocky Mount at least twice a year

Cosmetic Dentistry

Time can also take its toll on the appearance of your smile. A daily cup of coffee can stain your teeth and gum recession can make you look “long in the tooth”, both of which can make you appear older. Thankfully, there are numerous forms of cosmetic dentistry that can transform your smile, such as: 

• Professional smile whitening
• Porcelain veneers
• Dental crowns
• Bonding

If you’re concerned about the health of your teeth or the way your smile looks, talk with your dentist in Rocky Mount. They’ll work with you to find the best treatment for you. 

About The Author

Dr. Richard Hunt

Dr. Richard Hunt has served as president of the NC Dental Society and the Dental Foundation of NC. He is the director and past chair of the LD Pankey Foundation and former chair of the Dental Assisting National Board. Dr. Hunt regularly teaches at the Pankey Institute for Advanced Dental Education and the UNC Adams School of Dentistry. An active member of the American Dental Association, he has represented his peers from NC, SC, and VA on the ADA’s Council on Dental Practice.

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