New Year’s Resolutions for Better Dental Health
Do you have New Year’s Resolutions? Here are a few resolutions that will lead to better dental health in 2015 and beyond:
1) Quit Using Tobacco.
Tobacco use causes stained teeth, dulls your sense of taste and smell, causes slower healing after dental procedures, contributes to gum disease, and causes oral cancer. There are lots of great resources available to help you quit. Here’s one place to start.
2) Floss Every Day
Did you know that only 10-20% of American adults floss daily? Flossing prevents the build-up of cavity causing plaque which can also lead to cavities and gum disease. Without treatment, gum disease is a risk factor for heart disease and diabetes!
3) Brush After Every Meal
If you floss daily and brush 2x a day, we’ll be thrilled! Even better, is brushing after every meal. Plus, you’ll be less tempted to snack, which can be helpful if you’re trying to lose weight.
4) Cut Back on Sugar
We all know that candy and soft drinks are bad for our teeth, but added and processed sugars are bad for our health in general. The World Health Organization recently made a recommendation that added sugars not exceed 5 teaspoons for adults. There are 5 teaspoons of added sugar in just 1/2 a can of regular soda!