When it comes to your teeth, you know you're supposed to take care of them, but you may not understand the full ramifications of a health set of pearly whites. Good oral hygiene and regular visits to a dentist like Dr. Ronald Teichman at Park Slope Dentistry will help you to maintain your teeth, prevent problems, and ensure that you are denture-free in your old age. Your smile will be whiter and brighter with good dental care. However, the benefits go even deeper.
Take Care of Your Teeth to Avoid TMJ and Sleep Apnea
When you have a full set of teeth that are properly aligned, you can stave off more than tooth decay. Serious problems like a TMJ disorder and sleep apnea can stem from the condition of your teeth. When you have gaps due to deteriorated teeth or the surfaces of your teeth have become affected by various conditions, it can affect your bite. When your bite is thrown off balance, your whole jaw can be out of whack. It can result in TMJ, a strain or inflammation of the jaw joint that can wreak havoc on your body. In addition to making your jaw lock up, it can cause chronic migraines, neck pain, earaches, sore throat, and shoulder pain. Sleep apnea is another concern that can be caused by an improper alignment of your teeth, creating an obstacle to your airway when you sleep at night. Committing yourself to regular appointments with your dentist and a dental hygiene regimen can help you to steer clear of these issues and more.