EN 
ES Dr. Arabella Michelén
April is dedicated to prevention; it is an ideal time to reflect on the importance of caring for our health before receiving a disease diagnosis. Oral health plays a fundamental role. Often, the influence of the mouth on an individual’s overall well-being and health is underestimated. Maintaining a healthy and beautiful smile is an effective way to protect our entire body.
Prevention in dentistry involves taking measures to avoid oral diseases. The most common are dental caries and periodontal disease; both can range from minor discomfort, bad breath, and pain to tooth loss and complications affecting physical and mental health.
The most important measures for oral prevention are:
- Oral hygiene, It should include brushing, flossing, rinsing, and the use of any other tools recommended by your dentist. Ideally, upon waking to prevent morning breath, and after each meal.
- Balanced diet, Avoiding sugars and processed carbohydrates.
- Regular dental visits; ideally every six months, for check-ups and cleanings.
- Avoid bad habits: Smoking, alcohol, putting objects in the mouth, prolonged use of a pacifier… among others.
These start and are managed from home, following the instructions of the appropriate professional. For example, during a dental visit, a specific type of toothbrush may be recommended, which the patient should purchase and use accordingly. Similarly, for bad habits, professional guidance is important: pediatric dentists, nutritionists, psychologists…
The most common preventive treatments in oral health are: imaging studies, fluoride application, pit and fissure sealants, prophylaxis, preventive restorations, phototherapy, and any other procedure necessary to prevent the onset or complications of a condition or disease,
They offer multiple benefits:
– Absence of discomfort and pain, by avoiding conditions such as cavities and periodontal problems.
– Healthy teeth allow for good nutrition and therefore, proper development of the individual.
– Economic savings at the family and state level, since prevention is always cheaper than cure.
– Preservation of teeth in the mouth, which avoids the need for implants, prostheses or complex treatments.
– Better appearance and confidence; a smile is the expression of the soul.
Beyond the mouth: oral health and its impact on the rest of the body.
Various studies have shown the connection between oral diseases and systemic problems. Oral health can influence:
• Cardiovascular diseases: Chronic gum inflammation can increase the risk of developing heart diseases.
• Diabetes: People with diabetes are more prone to oral infections, and at the same time, a healthy mouth helps to better control blood sugar levels.
• Pregnancy complications: Untreated periodontal disease has been linked to premature births or low birth weight babies.
• Mental health and self-esteem: Good oral health improves self-esteem and reduces stress related to physical appearance and bad breath
April invites us to take a pause and think about what we can do today to prevent problems tomorrow. Visiting your dentist, maintaining good hygiene habits, and educating yourself about oral care are decisions that benefit not only your smile but your overall well-being and that of your family.
Remember: prevention means better living. Taking care of your smile is taking care of your health.
April reminds us that prevention is the key to enjoying good health