Importance of Oral Hygiene in Living a Long and Healthy Life!!!!!

Research shows that over 90% of the adult population suffers from dental problems. The most prevalent adult dental problem is bleeding gums- while the severity of this condition can vary; most adults have faced this problem at some point in their life. Gum disease (periodontitis) gives rise to problems in other parts of our body. Periodontitis is caused by plaque (tartar) a sticky film of bacteria, which creates toxins and also releases acid that causes damage to the gums and surrounding bone that anchor your tooth in place. Periodontitis progresses silently and is often painless, unlike most dental diseases that give us early warning signs. It is a well known fact that in times of stress, adults tend to increase their unhealthy habits, such as snacking on high-sugar food, smoking and increasing their intake of alcohol. Stress also makes us less attentive to our oral hygiene- not taking time out to floss or missing our dental check-ups. All these factors contribute to the aggravation of periodontal or gum disease. Research has found that while under stress and duress, there is an increase in the level of the hormone cortisol, which in turn causes increased destruction of the gums and jaw bone due to periodontal diseases. Adults also suffer from other dental problems like bad breath, dental caries, tartar, sensitive teeth and ulceration of the epithelium. Bad breath or halitosis, affecting as many as 95% of adults sometime or other, is an embarrassing condition.

Oral health in fact is an indication of overall health in adults. Adults with poor oral health are at a higher risk of developing coronary heart disease. Research shows that one of the indicators of heart problems may just be the state of your teeth! Bacteria that cause gum inflammation could impact heart health. Good oral health is also very important during pregnancy.

While oral health is vital to overall good health, adults often neglect oral hygiene. Our daily dental care regimen starts with brushing our teeth. Brushing is something we do everyday and if we do it the right way, then it can go a long way in keeping your teeth and gums healthy and strong.

Ayurvedic Herbs for Dental Care: In Ayurveda, herbs like Neem, Babool, Meswak, Tumburu or toothache tree, Pomegranate and Triphala have been traditionally used for treating dental disorders. Tumburu or Toothache tree is excellent for bleeding gums. Pomegranate, Babool and Meswak heal damaged and bleeding gums, tightening them in the process. Triphala comprises of Emblica officinalis, Terminalia chebula and Terminalia bellirica. It is an astringent, which arrests bleeding gums. It also helps heals ulcers. Neem possesses antiseptic and antifungal activity and is widely used in fighting bacteria.