If you’re like most people, your main change for 2018 will be to make healthy lifestyle changes. After you lace up your running shoes and eat your healthy meals, make sure to show your pearly whites some TLC!
Your smile is such an important component of your overall health that often gets neglected. At Appletree Dental, we feel that no plan for a healthier year would be complete without an oral health check-in.
Poor Oral Health Could Lead to Other Health Complications
We all want a beautiful, bright smile, but did you know that the health of your teeth is tied to the health of other parts of your body? If you fail to keep your oral health in check, the results could be serious health complications.
As your dental hygiene slips, your risk increases for health issues like dementia, respiratory infections, and diabetes.
Five Resolutions for a Healthy Smile in 2018
- Drink More Water. This step is important for every aspect of your health, and that includes oral health. A hydrated body is better equipped to produce enough saliva, which is important because this substance helps rinse your teeth, getting rid of loose bacteria and food particles.
- Begin Flossing Daily. We know this one can be a doozy! It doesn’t help that if you aren’t used to flossing, your gums are more sensitive. However, as time goes by and you continue to floss, you won’t feel any pain. Even though this is a crucial step and the only way to clean your gumline and between your teeth, 6 out of 10 Americans report that they do not floss every day.
- Commit to 6-Month Cleanings. This is another one that can be rough for some people to commit to, but you should visit your dentist every 6 months. We’re not that bad! Plus, if you see your dentist for regular checkups, there is a decreased likelihood that you will develop problems that could require more serious treatment, since you’re more likely to catch issues before they cause damage.
- Quit Smoking. Like drinking more water, this is one habit change that will go a long way to improve every aspect of your health. In terms of oral health, smoking increases your risk for gum disease and mouth cancer. It also causes yellow teeth, plaque buildup, and bad breath.
- Whiten Your Smile. Start the fresh new year with a fresh, white smile! Learn more about our whitening services.