Oral health plays a crucial role in our quality of life and overall well-being.

After all, our teeth are not only responsible for a beautiful appearance and a radiant smile but also have a significant impact on the health of the entire body.

What diseases are related to oral health?

Cardiovascular Diseases. Some studies suggest a possible link between poor oral health and an increased risk of developing cardiovascular diseases, such as heart disease and strokes. Chronic oral inflammation, resulting from untreated gum diseases, may contribute to the progression of cardiovascular conditions.

Diabetes. The relationship between diabetes and oral health can be bidirectional. Uncontrolled diabetes can increase the risk of dental problems, such as gum disease. Conversely, the presence of gum disease can make it harder to manage blood sugar levels, worsening diabetes.

Pneumonia. Poor oral health, particularly the presence of harmful oral bacteria, may raise the risk of pneumonia. It is suspected that the aspiration of bacteria from the oral cavity into the lungs can trigger respiratory infections, especially in elderly individuals or those with weakened immune systems.

Pregnancy Complications. Proper oral health is crucial during pregnancy, as untreated gum diseases have been associated with preterm births and low birth weight in babies. Adequate oral care during pregnancy is essential for the health of both the mother and the baby.

Mental Health. Studies suggest a link between oral health and mental well-being. Untreated dental issues can negatively affect self-esteem, confidence, and overall quality of life, contributing to mental health problems such as anxiety and depression.

While some studies suggest a causal relationship between oral health and the diseases mentioned above, others indicate that these conditions are strongly associated. These studies propose the existence of risk factors that may not only affect oral health but also lead to other complications.

Regardless, maintaining a healthy lifestyle is recommended to care for overall health.

What are the steps to a better life?

Proper Oral Hygiene. Maintaining a daily oral hygiene routine (brushing and flossing) is essential to prevent cavities, gum disease, and other dental issues.

Regular Dental Check-Ups. Regular visits to your dentist are crucial for the prevention, early detection, and treatment of dental problems. It is recommended to visit your dentist every six months or as advised by your oral health professional.

Healthy Diet. A balanced diet, rich in essential nutrients such as vitamins and minerals, supports both oral and overall health. Limiting the intake of sugary foods and acidic drinks helps prevent tooth decay.

Avoid Tobacco and Excessive Alcohol. Tobacco and excessive alcohol consumption negatively impact oral and general health. Avoiding or reducing the use of these substances benefits both your oral health and overall well-being.

Conclusion

In summary, oral health appears to play a vital role in overall body health.

By taking care of our teeth and gums, we can improve our quality of life. Maintaining good oral hygiene, visiting the dentist regularly, and adopting a healthy lifestyle are essential steps toward a full and healthy life.

Where to Find More Information

Portuguese Directorate-General of Health

World Health Organization (WHO)

American Academy of Periodontology

National Institutes of Health (NIH)

Oral health plays a crucial role in overall well-being and quality of life.

However, not everyone has easy access to the dental care they need, primarily due to financial constraints. To address this issue, a programme called "Cheque Dentista" was implemented in Portugal.

What is "Cheque Dentista"?

"Cheque Dentista" is a government programme created to facilitate access to dental care and improve the oral health of the Portuguese population.

It provides financial support, allowing people to access dental treatments more affordably.

What are the benefits of "Cheque Dentista"?

Facilitated access to dental care. The "Cheque Dentista" programme ensures that people of all ages have access to the treatments they need to maintain good oral health.

Wide range of treatments covered. "Cheque Dentista" covers a broad range of treatments, including routine check-ups, cleanings, cavity treatments, extractions, preventive care, among others.

Cost reduction. The "Cheque Dentista" programme provides financial assistance to help reduce the cost of dental treatments. This makes dental care more affordable for those facing financial difficulties, ensuring they don’t have to postpone or neglect necessary care.

Support for prevention. In addition to covering curative treatments, "Cheque Dentista" also promotes prevention. With regular check-ups, X-rays, and other preventive treatments, it helps avoid dental problems and maintain long-term oral health.

To benefit from the "Cheque Dentista" programme, a family doctor or dentist must carry out the appropriate assessment and prescription. After the assessment, the beneficiary will receive a voucher that can be used at a participating dental clinic or practice.

Who is covered by the programme?

• Pregnant women monitored by the Portuguese National Health Service (SNS).
• Beneficiaries of the Solidarity Supplement.
• Children and young people up to the age of 18, regardless of the school or institution they attend.
• Patients with HIV/AIDS infection.
• Patients with a suspected oral cancer lesion.

Where can I use my "Cheque Dentista" in Coimbra?

If you are covered by the programme, you can use your "Cheque Dentista" in Coimbra at Área Clínica.

We provide quality treatments for patients of all ages to maintain and improve their oral health.

Conclusion

"Cheque Dentista" has been an important initiative in Portugal to make dental care more accessible to the population.

By providing financial support for dental treatments, the programme has contributed to the improvement of oral health and the well-being of the Portuguese people. Whether for growing children, adults dealing with dental issues, or the elderly requiring specialised care, "Cheque Dentista" plays a key role in promoting oral health and equitable access to necessary treatments.

Learn more about the benefits of the "Cheque Dentista" programme and book your appointment today.

Knowing how to brush your teeth correctly is one of the fundamental pillars of oral health.

However, we often overlook the importance of performing this process properly. In this guide, we will explain step by step how to brush your teeth correctly.

After all, good brushing is essential to prevent cavities, gum disease, and to maintain a healthy and radiant smile.

Step 1: Time and Technique

To ensure effective brushing, it is recommended to brush your teeth for 2 minutes.

Divide your mouth into 4 sections (upper right, upper left, lower right, and lower left) and dedicate 30 seconds to brushing each section.

Remember to position the toothbrush at a 45° angle to your teeth, with the bristles pointing towards the gums.

Step 2: Flossing

After brushing, using dental floss is essential to ensure a thorough clean.

Cut approximately 45 cm of floss, wrap it around your middle fingers, and maintain adequate tension for better control. Glide the floss between all your teeth, using your thumbs for the upper teeth and your index fingers for the lower teeth.

This step is crucial to remove plaque and food particles that a toothbrush cannot reach.

Step 3: Final Brushing and Tongue Cleaning

Brush your teeth again using the remaining toothpaste on the toothbrush to remove any leftover food particles.

Rinse the toothbrush under running water and gently brush your tongue from back to front until it appears pink.

Remember not to rinse your mouth with water after brushing, as the toothpaste contains fluoride and beneficial components for your gums.

Additional Tips

• Brush your teeth at least twice a day, preferably three times, and floss at least once a day.
• Perform this brushing routine after meals and avoid eating or drinking for at least half an hour. This allows the toothpaste ingredients to work more effectively.
• Use fluoride toothpaste.
• Avoid using toothpicks.
• Replace your toothbrush every 3 months or when the bristles become worn.
• Regularly visit your dentist to assess your oral health, receive personalised advice, and undergo professional cleanings.

Conclusion

Proper tooth brushing and flossing are essential steps to ensure effective oral hygiene.

Knowing how to brush your teeth correctly and maintaining a consistent care routine is key to preventing dental problems and promoting impeccable oral health.

Remember that regular visits to the dentist are fundamental to complement your daily care efforts.

Área Clínica has a new website available for you.

Here, you can meet our team, learn more about the treatments we offer, and request appointment bookings. We value quality in everything we do, including our website, which has been carefully designed to enhance your experience.

Explore our new site now and discover how we can help take care of your smile.