It’s Time to Make Dental New Year’s Resolutions!
A new year is on the horizon and it’s time to make New Year’s Resolutions for 2022. Make sure to include dental resolutions in your list of improvements for next year, including regularly scheduled appointments every 6 months.
How Can I Improve My Oral Health in the Coming Year?
Regular dental check-ups and good oral hygiene are the best way to protect your oral health. Without proper brushing and flossing, plaque will begin to build up along the gum line in your mouth, creating a breeding ground for bacteria. Gingivitis, an infection in the gums, can lead to periodontitis, a more serious gum infection and potentially cause the loss of teeth and serious health risks.
Good Oral Hygiene at Home
Good oral hygiene is essential. Including these steps can help protect and preserve the health of your mouth and ultimately your overall health.
- Brush your teeth at least twice a day with an ADA approved fluoride toothpaste using a soft toothbrush to avoid damage to your gums.
- Floss daily – preferably at bedtime after you’ve brushed your teeth.
- Eat a healthy diet with fruits and vegetables, lean meats and proteins and limit sugary snacks and soft drinks.
- Avoid tobacco use.
- Contact Dr. Angela S. Evanson, DDS as soon as an oral health problem arises.
- Schedule regular dental check-ups and cleanings.
Your Physical Health and Your Oral Health are Connected
Most New Year’s Resolutions include getting in better physical health. Whether it be walking, going to the gym, or dieting, getting in shape is usually on the list for improvements. Did you know that your oral health is connected to your overall health? The state of your oral health can be a window to what’s going on with your physical health.
Following are just two of the oral health and physical health connections to consider:
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Inflammation and Infection in Your Body
Poor oral health has been linked to the advancement of infection in other areas of your body. The association between gum disease and diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis (RA) or other autoimmune diseases that affect the joints exists. According to experts, the mechanism of the destruction of connective tissues in both gum disease and RA is similar. Eating a balanced diet, having regular dental check-ups, and practicing good oral hygiene helps reduce your risks of tooth decay and gum disease that can advance other diseases or conditions.
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A Healthy Mouth Might Lower Your Risk of Heart Disease
Chronic inflammation from gum disease has also been associated with cardiovascular problems. Recent studies indicate that periodontal disease poses a risk factor for coronary arterial disease, peripheral arterial disease and stroke. The common link is inflammation from periodontal disease. These findings suggest that maintaining good oral health can help protect overall health.
Why Schedule Appointments Every 6 Months?
Dental appointments should be set at specific intervals because tooth decay develops in a predictable pattern. Even if you are diligent at brushing and flossing, plaque begins to re-colonize in your mouth within 24 to 48 hours after a professional cleaning. Once plaque transforms into tartar, it can only be removed with tools available to dental professionals. If you have professional teeth cleaning twice a year, you are less likely to experience a heavy plaque and tartar buildup and the cavities that follow.
Make Your Appointment Today
Dr. Evanson’s office is located in Parker with easy access to Aurora, Castle Rock, Centennial and Highlands Ranch. To schedule an appointment, call us today at (720) 409-0008 or contact us online. Here’s to a new year of good physical and oral health! Schedule your check-up today!
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