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Did you know your oral health directly influences your general health? As you enter 2021, why not make a healthy smile part of your New Year\u2019s resolutions? You can invest in your mouth and body by committing to your dental hygiene during the year ahead. Not sure where to start? Here are 3 resolutions to follow to achieve your oral health goals.<\/p>\n
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The American Dental Association recommends brushing your teeth at least twice a day for two minutes each session. Unfortunately, a study by Delta Dental found 31% of Americans don\u2019t follow this advice. After a long day, it\u2019s easy to crawl into bed without brushing your teeth. Although it may not seem concerning, it can leave a lasting mark on your dental health.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Harmful bacteria and plaque will accumulate in your mouth overnight, increasing your risk of tooth decay and gum disease. Brushing in the morning and before going to bed promotes healthy teeth and gums. It\u2019s best to use a soft-bristled toothbrush and nonabrasive toothpaste to clean all surfaces of your teeth and tongue.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Although brushing is effective, your toothbrush can\u2019t reach everywhere in your mouth. Floss is the only way to clean in between your teeth. If you don\u2019t floss every night before going to bed, you will significantly increase your risk of gum disease, which is the leading cause of tooth loss. Not to mention, the infection is linked to several health issues, like cardiovascular disease, Alzheimer\u2019s disease, and diabetic complications.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
It\u2019s best to use high-quality dental floss to clean between each tooth at least once a day. Research shows flossing is often more effective when it\u2019s done at night because it removes any bacteria that can linger in your mouth while you\u2019re sleeping. Your dentist also recommends flossing before brushing to allow your toothpaste to cover more of your enamel.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Besides caring for your smile at home, your dentist recommends you visit them at least twice a year for a cleaning and checkup. Routine services are designed to keep your teeth and gums healthy to ensure optimal oral health. Not only will you keep your smile healthy, but you\u2019ll also reduce your long-term dental expenses by preventing the need for a costly treatment in the future. Research shows every $1 spent on prevention can save you as much as $50 on restorative or emergency services.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
While you commit to paying off debt or eating better, make sure a healthy smile is also part of your New Year\u2019s resolutions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
About Dr. Dina H. Cocco<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Dr. Cocco<\/a> earned her dental degree at the University of Michigan. She has continued her training to provide advanced services to help her patients receive the personalized solutions they need through a focus on prevention. If it\u2019s time for your next cleaning and checkup, contact our office today to schedule your appointment<\/a>.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" Did you know your oral health directly influences your general health? As you enter 2021, why not make a healthy smile part of your New Year\u2019s resolutions? You can invest in your mouth and body by committing to your dental hygiene during the year ahead. Not sure where to start? Here are 3 resolutions to […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[1],"tags":[17],"yoast_head":"\n