January 4, 2018

While you are resolving to improve to make a healthier "new you" don't forget to include your mouth. A healthy body is intricately entwined with oral health and our healthy habits will improve your overall wellness. Consider our top 5 tips for a healthier mouth in the new year. Skip The Sugar: When sugar gets trapped on your teeth, the natural bacteria in your mouth feeds on sugar and breaksdown the enamel on your teeth. The longer sugar lingers on your teeth the more likely damage can occur. Not all candy is created equal. Sour candy is high in acid which can damage a tooth directly and soft or sticky candies can stick to your teeth causing sugar to linger longer.Skipping sugar has many other benefits and can lead to weight loss and overall improved health. Quit Tobacco: It's time to kick the tobacco habit; smoking not only harms your dental health but it harms your overall health. Smokers have double the risk for gum disease, not to mention have higher instances of cavities, throat, lung and oral cancer not to mention tooth loss. It can be hard to stop smoking so enlist a friend to keep you accountable. Drink More Water: Alcohol, coffee, energy drinks, and soda can all wreak havoc on your teeth. Many of the beverages not only stain your teeth but they are loaded with sugar. Water has so many natural benefits; it keeps your body hydrated and flushes the food around your teeth. The fluoride found in tap water also helps prevent cavities. Your goal should be to consume your body weight in ounces in water every day.   Check-In with your dentist: A healthy mouth is essential for overall health and can also help prevent medical diseases. Your mouth provides a snapshot into what's going on throughout your body. Routine dental screenings can provide early detection for diseases and problems that need to be addressed. According to the Academy of General Dentistry, over 90% of all systematic diseases produce oral symptoms meaning a visit to your dentist could save your life. Smile More: A smile has physical, physiological, and psychological benefits and it is super simple to flash your pearly whites. Forcing smile can boost your mood, improve your immune system, and improve your stress level. Plus it is way easier to smile than frown, a smile only uses 5 muscles while scientists discovered that it takes many more muscles to frown. Don't try to make major changes all at once, start small and remember, consistency is key. We can even provide you tips on goal setting.