Are you feeling motivated to make some big changes in 2019? Why not start by improving your oral health! Here are just a few commitments you can make this year to brighten your smile and improve the condition of your teeth and gums.
1. Quit smoking.
Did you know that smoking cigarettes can be hugely detrimental to your oral health? Smoking increases your risk of gum disease, oral cancer, cavities, and even tooth loss. Smoking can also impact the aesthetic appearance of your smile. Not only are smokers about twice as likely to lose their teeth as non-smokers, but they also experience tooth discoloration and a receding gum line. As if that weren’t difficult enough to deal with, smokers also experience halitosis as well. Therefore, if you’d like to drastically improve your smile in the new year, quitting smoking is a great place to start!
2 .Improve your diet.
While most people choose to improve their diet in the new year as a means of losing weight, we recommend doing so to boost your oral health! Poor nutrition can impact the health of your teeth and gums in a number of ways. For starters, an unhealthy diet can deplete your immune system, making you more susceptible to gingivitis and gum disease. A diet with high sugar content can also increase your risk of cavities. By eating foods that are rich in antioxidants and other nutrients, you can better protect the health of your teeth and gums.
3. Limit your alcohol intake.
Now that the holidays have passed, you might be considering limiting your alcohol intake. If you need further motivation to do so, look no further than your oral health! Studies have shown that those who drink excessive amounts of alcohol are less likely to maintain important dental hygiene practices. Many alcoholic beverages tend to be high in sugar, which can lead to cavities and tooth discoloration. Finally, alcohol consumption impacts your immune system, which can put you at increased risk for infection and inflammation of the gums. All in all, pulling back on the alcohol consumption can do wonders for your oral health.
4. Book your next dentist appointment.
As the new year begins, taking the time to prioritize self-care is important! This includes taking care of your oral health by scheduling your next dental check-up. We’ll help you start the year off right by screening for hidden oral health issues like oral cancer, gum disease, and cavities. We’ll also perform a thorough professional cleaning to keep your teeth and gums in good condition.
To start 2019 on the right foot, call Advanced Family Dental & Orthodontics today to schedule your next appointment.