The New Year often signals resolutions aimed at making you healthier, wealthier and wiser. The list of resolutions can often include things like breaking unhealthy habits, eating more fruits and vegetables, or starting an exercise routine.
If you’ve resolved to make 2018 your best year yet, don’t forget about your oral health! Did you know that oral hygiene affects your overall well-being? A healthy mouth and healthy body go hand in hand. Improve your whole self by implementing an oral care routine to last the entire year.
Brushing and flossing are essential to maintaining a healthy, disease-free mouth. Brush for a full two minutes twice a day. Better yet, brush after every meal and snack. Be sure to brush the outer surfaces, inner surfaces and biting surface of your teeth.
As important as brushing is, it is only a part of the full oral care routine. Bacteria can remain between your teeth where your toothbrush can’t reach, which can lead to tooth decay and gum disease. Be sure to floss daily as well.
Need more ways to boost your oral care game in 2018?
- Treat yourself to a new toothbrush. When the bristles on your toothbrush begin to fray they become less effective in removing plaque. With consistent use, the average lifespan of a toothbrush is about three months.
- Quit smoking. Smoking is one of the leading causes of gum disease. The nicotine and tar in cigarettes can irritate your gum tissue. Smoking cigarettes can also reduce your body’s ability to fight infection, which can cause gum disease to worsen more quickly.
- Visit the dentist regularly. Adopting a good oral hygiene routine is a great way to maintain healthy teeth and gums; however, plaque can still develop over time. Having a dentist remove this plaque can decrease your chances of developing cavities, root canals and more, which is why it is necessary to have cleanings and exams on a regular basis.
Make 2018 your best year yet by scheduling a comprehensive exam at Petersen Family Dentistry.
