Every January, millions of Americans make New Year’s resolutions. In fact, a poll conducted in 2017 found that 53% of respondents resolved to save more money, while 45% wanted to exercise more and get in shape. But if you always make one of these common resolutions each year and want to do something different in 2019, why not focus on your oral health for a change? Scheduling with a dentist in North Austin (along with a few improvements to your oral hygiene routine) are a great start to achieving your best smile yet this year. Keep reading to find out why your oral health is such a worthwhile resolution and what you can do to improve it!
WHY IS YOUR ORAL HEALTH SO IMPORTANT?
When most people think about their oral health, they only think about whether they have cavities or not – but there’s so much more to the story. For example, your gums are just as important as your teeth, especially since gum disease is the #1 cause of tooth loss.
Also, researchers have found overwhelming evidence that gum disease increases your risk for all of the following:
- Heart disease
- Stroke
- Diabetes
- Alzheimer’s disease
- Pregnancy complications
- Some cancers
Simply put, your mouth is connected to the rest of your body, and improving the health of one can improve the health of the other.
Not to mention how important a healthy smile is to your self-image. When people have oral health problems, it’s not uncommon for them to avoid smiling because they feel embarrassed of their teeth. Addressing these issues is a big part of your self-confidence and overall quality of life.
HOW CAN YOU IMPROVE YOUR ORAL HEALTH THIS YEAR?
Here are a few easy ways to make sure your smile is in great shape:
- Schedule a checkup – Your six-month checkups are more than “just a cleaning” (although cleanings are certainly important!) But when a dentist examines your teeth and gums regularly, you’ll minimize the amount of dental work you need, prevent or manage gum disease, and also avoid dental emergencies.
- Maintain good oral hygiene – When it comes to your oral hygiene habits, aim for better instead of perfect. For example, many people struggle with flossing, but you can start by flossing every other day at first, which is a more attainable goal. Or, if you’re too tired at bedtime, try flossing right after lunch or dinner each day when you have more energy.
- Eat a healthy diet – You don’t have to give up sugar entirely, but limiting your total sugar consumption will benefit your entire body, including your teeth and gums. And adding more fruits and vegetables to your diet is always beneficial.
With these simple changes, you can make 2019 the year you achieve your healthiest smile yet!
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Dr. Candace Bruno is a holistic dentist in North Austin who wants to help each of her patients live their best life. In her experience, she’s found that patients who get six-month checkups need less major dental work than those who don’t, so she always encourages everyone to schedule regular visits. If you have any other questions about your oral health, she can be contacted through her website or at (512) 372-8484.