A new year is quickly
approaching, so if you are like most people, you may have already started to
think about making your New Year's resolutions. It is common for people to
resolve to quit bad habits, save more money or start exercising. Those are all
great, but what about promising to take better care of your teeth? It is easy
to take your teeth for granted, but they actually play a major role in your
overall health and they have a direct effect on a number of body systems. Making
a New Year's resolution to keep your teeth healthy will go a long way towards
keeping you healthy and giving you a healthier, brighter smile throughout
2018.
Eat Fruits and Vegetables
Making a New Year's
resolution to eat healthy is one of the most important things you can do for
your dental health. Poor nutrition can affect your immune system and increase
the risk to a variety of oral disorders, including gum disease. The natural
antioxidants and nutrients found in fruits and vegetables help improve your body's
ability to fight inflammation and bacteria as well as provide protection for
your teeth and gums.
Quit Tobacco Products
Making the decision to
quit using tobacco products is one of the most common New Year's resolutions.
The use of tobacco can cause oral cancer, throat cancer, tooth discoloration
and gum disease. In fact, people who smoke or chew tobacco are twice as likely
to lose their teeth as those who don't. The good news is your risk of tooth
loss significantly decreases after you quit using smokeless tobacco and your
dentist can remove the discoloration to give you a brighter smile.
Keep Brushing and
Flossing
One of the most important
things you can do to protect your teeth from gum disease and tooth
decay is to have a solid brushing and flossing routine. For a healthy,
bright smile, you should brush your teeth at least twice per day and floss at
least once per day. Without proper oral care, you may develop gum disease or
experience tooth loss. Plus, not taking care of your teeth and gums can have a
significant effect on your overall health, including increasing the risk for
heart disease.
One of the most important New Year's resolutions you can make for a healthier smile is to visit your dentist regularly. Routine visits to the dentist can help prevent oral health problems before they start. The start of a new year is also the perfect time to make a resolution regarding the dental services you have been putting off. If you have been living with pain in your teeth and gums or are fed up with hiding your smile because of staining, schedule a dental appointment today and we can help you stick with your New Year's resolution of having a whiter, brighter and healthier smile.
One of the most important New Year's resolutions you can make for a healthier smile is to visit your dentist regularly. Routine visits to the dentist can help prevent oral health problems before they start. The start of a new year is also the perfect time to make a resolution regarding the dental services you have been putting off. If you have been living with pain in your teeth and gums or are fed up with hiding your smile because of staining, schedule a dental appointment today and we can help you stick with your New Year's resolution of having a whiter, brighter and healthier smile.