Which of the following is a benefit of proper dental hygiene?

Improved overall health is a significant benefit of proper dental hygiene because maintaining good oral health can have a profound impact on an individual's overall health. Regular practices such as brushing, flossing, and routine dental check-ups help in preventing a variety of dental issues, including cavities and gum disease.

Additionally, research has increasingly shown connections between oral health and systemic health, indicating that poor dental hygiene can contribute to conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory infections. By effectively managing oral health through proper hygiene practices, individuals can help reduce the risk of these systemic health issues. This holistic view of health emphasizes the importance of seeing oral care as a crucial component of overall well-being.

The other options highlight negative outcomes or suggest no benefit, which contrasts with the established understanding that good dental hygiene contributes positively to health.