The new year is great because it is a time that you can make positive changes in your life. In 2019, what goals are you setting for yourself? One aspiration you can achieve with ease is keeping your mouth healthy. Your oral health affects your overall health and appearance, so it’s important to keep your smile as healthy as possible. Thankfully, your dentist in Bedford has some tips on how you can give yourself a healthy set of pearly whites in the new year.
Schedule Your Routine Dental Appointments
Did you know that around 1/3 of the US population doesn’t see their dentist at least once every year? According to the American Dental Association, you should see your dentist for a regular checkup and cleaning every 6 months for the best oral health. These appointments prevent issues like gum disease and decay, while they can also detect problems before they get more serious. In 2019, be sure to put at least 2 dental visits on your calendar.
Commit to Regular Flossing
Just brushing your teeth isn’t enough. If you think about it, each tooth in your smile has 5 sides: the front, back, top, left side, and right side. If you aren’t brushing, your leaving 2 sides of each tooth susceptible to decay. When plaque builds up, it interacts with the bacteria in your mouth to create acid. This acid is what causes cavities, decay, and other dental issues. Flossing also keeps your gums healthy and strong.
Try to Avoid Sugar
There is a direct relationship between the amount of sugar you eat and the tooth decay you have. To put it simple enough, if you eat less sugar, you’re much less likely to get cavities. You can do things like switching soda for seltzer water or using xylitol as a sugar substitute to sweeten foods. Sugar-free gum is another great treat you can snack on that actually promotes the health of your teeth by stimulating saliva.
Kick the Smoking Habit
If you needed another reason to quit smoking or tobacco products, here it is: smoking doubles your risk of gum disease. This infection of the gums puts you at higher risk of cardiovascular disease, stroke, diabetes, and more serious overall health issues. So, if you do smoke, pick a date to quit and stick to it. You can find a healthy activity to keep you distracted while you kick the habit.
Eat a More Mouth-Healthy Diet
Dairy products are high in calcium, which strengthens your teeth. Additionally, foods rich in fiber promote saliva flow to keep your teeth clean. Work these foods into your diet and limit your sugar intake for a healthy grin.
You can have your healthiest year yet with regular flossing, routine dental visits, and a tweaked diet. Use these healthy smile tips to give yourself a great 2019.
Meet the Dentist
Dr. Ron Hendrickson is an experienced dentist with a passion for helping his patients. He currently practices at Hendricksen and White Cosmetic & Family Dentistry, and he can be reached through his website or by phone at (540) 587-5707 for any questions.