Make Oral Health a Priority in the New Year

The New Year is only a few days away! Are you still trying to come up with a New Year’s Resolution? Not to worry! We have an idea for you.

Oral health is a major component of overall health and wellness. In many instances, our oral health directly correlates to the rest of our bodies. According to the Mayo Clinic, poor oral health may be linked to several health conditions including heart disease, diabetes, osteoporosis, and more.

How about make a resolution to improve your oral health? We have some tips for you, and they’ll certainly pay off in helping you achieve a healthier and brighter smile in the new year. Your body will thank you for it too!

Eat Plenty of Fruits and Vegetables

Eating well helps your entire immune system. By eating plenty of antioxidants and nutrients found in fruits and vegetables, your body is strong in it’s fight against bacteria and inflammation. In turn, this helps to protect your teeth and gums. Crisp, raw fruits and vegetables are also high in fiber which helps to remove plaque from teeth by increasing saliva production and helping to naturally “brush” them.

Drink Plenty of Fluoridated Water

Drinking water benefits your health in many ways including your oral health. Water cleans your mouth with every sip by washing away food and residue. It also helps fight dry mouth. Saliva is one of your mouth’s best defenses against tooth decay as it dilutes the acids produced by the bacteria in your mouth. The fluoride in water makes your teeth more resistant to these bacteria and acids.

Limit Your Alcohol Intake

You likely know that too much alcohol intake is not good for your health. It’s also not good for your oral health. Studies show that those who consume excessive alcohol often suffer from increased gum recession.

Quit Smoking or Using Other Tobacco Products

There are many health risks that go along with using tobacco products. Using tobacco also takes its toll on your oral health. Tobacco use leads to an increased risk of tooth discoloration, cavities, gum recession, and oral cancer. Additionally, smokers are twice as likely to suffer from tooth loss than non-smokers.

Brush and Floss Regularly

This one seems obvious, but it is no less important. Brushing and flossing protect your teeth and gums from decay and disease. Without proper brushing and flossing, decay and disease can wreak havoc on your mouth leading to additional health problems.

Chew Sugarless Gum

Chewing sugarless gum that contains the natural sweetener Xylitol following meals, or at times when you are unable to brush helps to prevent tooth decay. Xylitol has been shown to reduce the amount of cavity causing bacteria in plaque.

See Your Dentist Regularly

Your dentist knows what’s best when it comes to keeping your mouth healthy. In addition to addressing any pressing issues, your dentist will also screen and work with you to prevent further oral health issues. Minimally, you should visit your dentist twice a year.

The new year is a great time to get these appointments on your calendar. Schedule your next visit today!