Are you resolving to improve your health in 2017? Start with your smile!
“Your dental health is an important part of your overall wellness,” says the Colgate Oral Care Center.
Most adults know that poor oral health can lead to issues such as cavities, but many don’t realize that it also can have negative effects on the rest of the body. For example, according to the Mayo Clinic, “research suggests that heart disease, clogged arteries, and stroke might be linked to the inflammation and infections that oral bacteria can cause.” Gum disease, warns the Journal of Periodontology, could increase the risk for respiratory infections such as pneumonia and COPD.
You can help prevent problems caused by poor oral health by taking proper care of your teeth and gums.Commit to these three resolutions for a healthier mouth:
1. Get Regular Checkups and Cleanings.
Did you know that approximately one-third of U.S. residents skip seeing the dentist every year? Don’t be one of those people. Getting routine dental exams and teeth cleanings every six months is the most effective way to keep your mouth healthy and diagnose potential problems before they become serious issues.
2. Brush Better!
Brushing your teeth at least twice a day and flossing once a day keeps your mouth clean and helps prevent tooth decay, gingivitis (gum disease), and halitosis (bad breath). However, most adults don’t brush their teeth correctly–or for long enough.
“To properly brush your teeth, use short, gentle strokes, paying extra attention to the gumline, hard-to-reach back teeth and areas around fillings, crowns or other restoration,” advises Colgate. “Concentrate on thoroughly cleaning each section…” of your teeth, including outer and inner surfaces and chewing surfaces, as well as your tongue. Aim to spend at least two minutes brushing your teeth each time.
3. Schedule Dental Treatments You’ve Been Putting Off.
If you’ve been delaying restorative dental work such as fillings, crowns, implants, or offset bite adjustments, resolve to get it done as soon as possible this year.
“Completing these types of procedures will help you to preserve the tooth structure and to maintain proper tooth alignment, which could ultimately improve your oral health,” says Colgate.
Are You Searching For A Martinsburg Area Dentist For You Or Your Family?
If you’re searching for an experienced dentist please feel free to contact us online or call our Martinsburg, West Virginia dental office directly at 304.267.6059 to schedule your appointment. We provide a wide range of general dentistry care as well as more involved dentistry services for patients throughout the Martinsburg area and look forward to you joining the Cornerstone Dental family.
