New Year’s Resolutions are made each and every January and can range from committing to eating healthier to training to run your first marathon and anything in between. But all resolutions typically have the same underlying notion — to get healthier. This year is no different, and we may actually put more emphasis on health now more than ever before. Additionally, it’s important to know that oral health goes hand-in-hand with overall health. That’s why your dentist in McMinnville is here to encourage you to make dental care part of your 2021 resolutions.
The Importance of Dental Care
Dental care and overall health are directly linked, and how well we care for our smiles can affect our bodies in other ways. For example, gum disease can increase the risk of stroke, heart attack, diabetes, and dementia. So if you’ve resolved to get healthier this year, there are things you should do outside of eating a well-balanced diet and exercising.
Many patients make the mistake of only seeing the dentist when they’re experiencing a problem. However, preventive dentistry can go a long way in keeping these problems from occurring in the first place. Additionally, appointments with your dentist every six months allow your dental team to catch and treat any problems early before they have a chance to affect the rest of your health. One of the best things you can do to fully commit to a healthier 2021 is to schedule an appointment with your dentist and maintain those visits every six months.
Besides seeing your dentist, you should also do your part at home by brushing your teeth twice a day, every day. Gently brushing your teeth in the morning and at night will help remove bacteria buildup and reduce the risk of decay and even gum disease. But at-home dental care doesn’t end there. It’s also important to floss daily. Flossing removes particles in between your teeth and up under the gum line, further protecting you from problems down the road.
One of the most common resolutions people make every year is to stop smoking once and for all. It’s also one of the hardest resolutions to keep. But following through on this commitment can greatly improve your life and your health by reducing the risk of cancer, including oral cancer, and lowering the risk of decay, gum disease, and tooth discoloration. Make a plan and find supportive friends or resources to help.
Another way you can help your body and your teeth is to stop drinking soda, or at least limit how much you drink and how often you drink it. Soda is packed with sugars that feed bacteria in the mouth. As these bacteria eat, they give off an acidic byproduct that can eat away at tooth enamel and cause cavities. Soda can also increase the risk of whole-body problems such as diabetes, weight gain, and heart disease. Instead, drink water as often as possible and try to drink at least 64 ounces every day.
As we welcome 2021, make a resolution to take care of your dental health. Your body, your smile, and your dentist in McMinnville will thank you.
