As we start a brand-new year, our resolutions for wellness and health are more important than ever.
Your oral health is directly linked to your overall health and wellness. By taking steps to make sure that your teeth and gums are in good shape, you are also making sure that you are achieving overall well-being for your body.
If you are worried that you have fallen short of your resolutions, don’t fret. It will take time and effort to solidify new, healthy habits. Also, it’s never too late to start working on your oral health resolutions!
Your Dallas dentist recommends these oral health tips for a healthier you this year.
Schedule a dental checkup
Help detect oral health problems early on by seeing your dentist for preventive checkups. Your dental provider can pinpoint gum diseases, cavities, and other health conditions like diabetes, heart disease, and cancer – all of which have signs that manifest in the mouth. Early detection can help prevent overall health issues, as well as oral health issues from progressing. So be sure to schedule a checkup with your dentist early this year.
Enhance your oral care routine
Did you know that about 80 percent of Americans suffer from gum disease? Your routine should include daily brushing and flossing, at least twice a day. Being vigilant with your oral health routine can help prevent tooth decay – a condition that is 100 percent preventable but is prevalent among adults and kids.
Eat healthily
Make sure that your meals are packed with calcium and lean protein, like cheese, milk, fish, eggs, and chicken. These foods help keep your teeth healthy and strong. Also, go for crunchy vegetables and fruits like carrots and apples to help clean your teeth by stimulating saliva production.
Drink more water
This is one of the best things you can do for both your body and teeth. Drinking water helps prevent cavities by cleaning your mouth – washing away diluting acids and leftover food. Choosing water helps you avoid consuming sugar that is present in juice, soda, and sports drinks. In addition, water is essential in keeping your tissues, cells, and organs in good condition.
Manage stress
You can achieve this by eating healthy foods, staying active, and getting good sleep. Anxiety and stress can affect your mental health and make you more vulnerable to oral health issues like canker sores, teeth grinding, toothaches, and dry mouth. Look for stress-reducing activities that you like – it can be journaling, meditation, talking to a friend, listening to music, taking a walk, and more.
Your Dallas dentist wishes you great oral and overall health this year! Contact us to schedule an appointment.
Sources:
“Oral Health-Total Health: Know the Connection,” American Dental Hygienists’ Association, https://www.adha.org/
“The Best Foods For A Healthy Smile and Whole Body,” University of Illinois Chicago, https://dentistry.uic.edu/
