<![CDATA[The New Year has arrived.But it’s not too late to add a few more resolutions to your list. The Dental Spot would like to suggestincludingNew Years resolutions that promote healthy teeth and gums for years to come.
Having healthy teeth and gums plays a vital role in living an overall healthy lifestyle.Oral health diseasehasbeen linked to everything from heart disease, to stroke and even low-birth weight in newborn babies. The Centers for Disease Control reportsindividuals with periodontal disease and gingivitis have higher mortality rates –anywhere from23 to 46 percent — than those who do not. And, individuals who flossdaily are said to add as many as 6.4 years to their lives.
Consideradding a few of these smile-friendly goals to your list of resolutions for 2013.
Brush Your Teeth Regularly – We recommend brushing your teeth twice a day, once in the morning after you wake up and once before going to bed. Brushing your teeth with fluoride toothpaste can help remove bacteria from your teeth and gums that lead to cavities and inflammation.
Floss– As mentioned above, flossing at least once a day can add years to your life. Flossing only takes a few minutes and helps remove built up bacteria from the nooks and crannies in between your teeth. Keep floss in your car, purse or medicine cabinet can help make it easier to floss even when you are on the go.
Eat Tooth-Healthy Foods- Eating healthy may already be on your list of New Years resolutions. At The Dental Spot, we recommend patients try to avoid overly sugary foods. When you do eat sweets and can’t brush right away, be sure to rinse your mouth with water to wash away bacteria that can cling to your tooth’s enamel.
Chewing a gum that contains xylitol can actually help fight off bacteria and help prevent cavities. When you start craving sweets, reach for foods with natural sugars like apples and pears, instead of processed,sugary foods.
Come Visit Us-Along with regular brushing and flossing, the next best thing you can do to ensure a healthy smile is to come in for regular dental appointments and cleanings. You should have your teeth cleaned every six months and have a dental exam once a year. Schedule your next dental appointment with Dr. Nick and Dr. Christine Matthews now and start checking off your New Years resolutions today!]]>