Oral health is about more than teeth.

Because good oral health impacts overall health.

Having good oral health affects more than just your mouth; it can help keep other areas of your body healthy as well. For kids, it can help them with learning to speak properly, sleep better, eat and chew better, and lead to better self-esteem. Good oral health can even have a positive impact on your unborn baby!

Here are four important things to know about oral health:

Your teeth and gums are as important as the rest of your body.

Having poor oral health can affect other areas of your body beyond just your mouth. More studies are showing that there is a connection between your oral health and your general health and well-being. Teeth are important for children's speech development (helping to form words), nutrition (better chewing), and sleep (tooth pain can keep kids awake – and that impacts other parts of their lives). Even babies benefit from their mother’s good oral health!

Diseases of the gums and bone, known as gingivitis and periodontal disease, have been linked to diseases such as:

• Diabetes: people with diabetes are at a higher risk of gum disease, which can also affect the severity of their diabetes.
• Respiratory illness: inhaling the bacteria found in plaque through the lungs can cause an infection or make existing lung conditions worse, especially in older adults.
• Cardiovascular disease: new research has found a possible connection between heart disease and stroke and gum disease.

Good oral health is possible for everyone.

Oral health care is a right, and it’s a right for everyone regardless of race, income or location. There are programs and supports available for you and your family that can help promote good oral health – including some programs that give out free toothbrushes, toothpaste, and floss.  Sometimes free toothbrushes are even available from your dental provider or health centre.  “Just ask!” to help make it easier for you and your family to adopt daily habits that protect and promote good oral health.

Prevent, Don’t React.

Some people think they need to wait until they have pain before seeing an Oral Healthcare Provider. Seeing an Oral Healthcare Provider once a year can help catch problems before they start. The benefits of a good oral health routine are that a few easy, healthy and fun habits can prevent issues before they start or progress to pain. Brushing twice a day and flossing daily can help keep your mouth and body healthy.

Create a new oral health habit by bonding and brushing with your kids.

Spending quality time with your kids is important for making memories. A daily oral health routine built on honouring your health allows you to share moments and to encourage habits that will last a lifetime – for both of you!

For more information and frequently asked questions click here.