When it comes to our oral health, the little things matter. Brushing your teeth, flossing daily, eating healthy, and scheduling regular dental checkups may seem routine — but these small habits can have a big impact on your overall well-being.

At Cigna Healthcare, we believe that taking care of your mouth is a powerful step toward taking care of your whole self.

“Your smile is one of the first things people notice,” said Dr. Cary Sun, a dentist and chief dental officer at Cigna Healthcare. When you feel good about your teeth and gums, you’re more likely to smile, speak up, and engage with others. That confidence can boost your mood, improve relationships, and even help in professional settings.”

Simple habits for better dental health

Here are a few easy ways to protect your oral health:

• Brush at least twice a day using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste.
• Floss daily to remove plaque and food particles from between your teeth and below the gumline.
• Rinse with alcohol-free mouthwash for about 30 seconds after brushing and flossing. If you’re at high risk for cavities, use a mouthwash with fluoride.
• Limit sugary and acidic foods and drinks that erode enamel and feed harmful bacteria.
• Schedule regular dental checkups — even if you feel fine. If you need treatment for any dental problems, don’t put it off. Follow your dentist’s recommendations for care.
• Use a nightguard if you grind your teeth at night.
• Wear a proper fitting mouthguard if you play contact sports to avoid injuries to your teeth and jaw.

A healthy mouth is more than a clean smile

Good dental hygiene helps prevent cavities, gum disease, and tooth loss. But the benefits go deeper.

“Brushing off dental care can have serious implications for your health and wellness,” Dr. Sun said. “Even forgoing recommended teeth cleanings can lead to gingivitis, gum disease, and cavities — which can escalate into bigger problems like root canals or tooth loss.”

Research shows that oral health is closely linked to many health conditions like heart disease, diabetes, pregnancy, stroke, and mental health disorders. Gum disease causes inflammation that spreads throughout the body, affecting your immune system and increasing health risks.

The stats speak for themselves: Your oral health impacts your overall health and vitality

• Smile satisfaction is one of the top three drivers of self-confidence among U.S. adults. Among those who are completely satisfied with their smile, 93% rate their self-confidence as excellent or very good, compared to only 30% among those dissatisfied.
• People with diabetes are 15 times more likely to have lost all their teeth than those without diabetes.
• Cavities are associated with a 40% increased risk of stroke.
• Periodontal disease in pregnant women is linked to increased risk of preterm birth, low birth weight, and preeclampsia.

Mental health and oral health are interconnected

Did you know that people who are dealing with mental health challenges like depression or anxiety often have oral health-related side effects?

• Many find it harder to keep up with brushing and flossing, and some put off seeing the dentist – even if they notice problems with their teeth or gums.
• A common side effect of many psychiatric medications is dry mouth, caused by the medication reducing saliva production.
• Antidepressant medication has also been linked to bruxism (teeth grinding and clenching), which can damage teeth and gums.
• People with eating disorders may experience dental problems such as tooth erosion.

However, newer research has shown an even closer link between oral health and mental well-being.

• Gum disease and the inflammation it causes can allow bacteria to enter the bloodstream, increasing stress hormones that impact mental health.
• Additionally, bacteria from gum infections can lead to brain inflammation.
• One study found that children who experienced neglect and had poor dental care faced more mental health challenges compared to those who did not.

“Integrated care involving dentists, medical doctors, and mental health professionals is key,” said Jason Youngblood, director of behavioral clinical account management at Cigna Healthcare. "Including oral care resources in behavioral health settings can improve overall wellness and help manage chronic diseases more effectively.”

Dental insurance can make a real impact

Checkups can catch early signs of serious conditions like diabetes, heart disease, and even certain cancers. By covering preventive care like cleanings and exams, dental insurance helps you stay ahead of potential health issues, saving you from costly treatments down the road. In fact, Cigna Healthcare’s studies show that consistent preventive dental care can reduce total medical costs.

Beyond health, dental insurance offers peace of mind. It helps manage out-of-pocket expenses, making it easier to afford everything from routine cleanings to major procedures like crowns or root canals.

Final word

“This Dental Hygiene Awareness Month, take a moment to appreciate the power of small habits,” Dr. Sun said. “Your toothbrush might just be one of your most important health tools.”