New Year’s Resolutions Should Include Better Oral Health
January is usually the time of year when we make resolutions for the coming year. There are lots of benefits to setting goals if they motivate us to create better habits. Resolutions should include habits that are achievable in a step-by-step way and include actions that will produce positive changes in our lives. As you make your resolutions, don’t forget to include your oral health in 2024. Better oral health care at home, routine dental exams, and a better diet to protect your teeth! Following are a few guidelines to help when setting goals for better oral health.
Resolve to Find a Regular Dentist
The first step to better oral health is to make sure you have a dentist that you trust. Dr. Angela S. Evanson, DDS, is a member of the American Dental Association, Colorado Dental Association, the Metro Denver Dental Society, the Academy of General Dentistry, the Colorado Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, and the American Equilibration Society. She obtained her Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the University of Minnesota and completed a pediatric mini-residency at the University of the Pacific Dental School. Dr. Evanson has provided quality dental care since 1994.
Dr. Evanson works to establish a personal relationship with her patients and treats each one in a compassionate and gentle way. Dubbed as your “Hometown Family Dentist”, Dr. Evanson’s top priority is helping children, teens and adults achieve and maintain a beautiful, healthy smile.
Quit Using Tobacco of Any Kind
If you are serious about achieving better oral health, set aside any form of tobacco. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) has done studies that indicate your risk for gum disease doubles if you use tobacco. Tobacco in any form— vaping, cigarettes, pipes, cigars, and smokeless tobacco (chew)—raises your risk for gum disease, which can lead to tooth loss, and other diseases.
Vaping is detrimental to oral health because the vape oils contain nicotine. Nicotine drastically reduces blood flow, restricting oxygen and the supply of nutrients to the soft tissues in the mouth. Vaping causes your gums to recede. According to the CDC, when e-cigarette vapors are burned, inflammatory proteins are released in the gum tissue which can result in oral diseases such as periodontitis.
Reduced blood circulation also inhibits the mouth’s natural ability to fight against bacteria. Infection, decay rates, and other problems can all be accelerated. Over an extended period, tooth loss and other health problems can result from vaping.
Eat Healthy Food and Drinks
Your diet significantly impacts the health of your teeth. Highly acidic or sugary food and drinks are bad for your teeth and can lead to bacteria and plaque buildup, which leads to tooth decay. Eating fibrous foods such as fruit and vegetables and drinking more water, is good for your teeth. This is a bonus two-for-one resolution; healthy foods are also good for your waistline!
Brush Twice a Day for Two Minutes Each Time and Floss Once a Day
While most of us remember to brush our teeth at least twice a day, not everyone can say that they floss once a day. Floss preferably at night to remove food and bacteria from between the teeth. Brushing and flossing are foundational habits for healthy teeth.
Make Regular Dental Appointments
The ADA recommends that you should see your dentist for a professional cleaning and examination every six months. Schedule an appointment by calling Dr. Evanson at (720) 409-0008 or contact her office online. These few steps will help you on your way to achieving your goal for better oral health in 2024!
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