Now that the New Year is upon us, it is time to make some New Year's resolutions. Of course, our favorite ones involve helping you maintain healthy teeth, gums and smile.
But, since you are already brushing and flossing on a regular basis, visiting your dentist (that's us!) at the recommended interval, and not opening bottle caps with your pearly whites, here are some great dental resolutions that may surprise you!1. Change your toothbrush at least every 3 months!
Even though your brush may look normal, after three months the bristles become weakened and are not effective. It is also a good idea to get a new toothbrush after an illness. And NEVER share your toothbrush with anyone!
2. Avoid sports drinks - they can rot your teeth!
We all know that sugary sodas can help promote the formation of cavities and avoid them as best we can. Many people believe that consuming sports drinks is a healthy way to hydrate. What these people fail to realize is that these drinks are loaded with sugar, and should only be consumed by athletes in training to replace lost electrolytes. The best drink ever created is still water!
3. Fluoride is good but be careful!
We are big believers in the proven benefits of fluoridated drinking water (which we do not have here in the Comox Valley), toothpaste and in-office fluoride treatments. Excessive fluoride, however, can be a bad thing. Make sure that small children in the house are not snacking on toothpaste and letting it rest on their teeth. Also, rinsing and spitting after brushing is best.
4. Quit smoking NOW!
We all know that cigarette smoking is linked to lung cancer, heart disease, emphysema, and many other serious health problems. What you may not know is that smoking (and smokeless tobacco) has also been linked to throat and mouth cancer. Smokers are also twice as likely to lose their teeth compared to non-smokers.
5. Eat your fruits and vegetables!
Eating well is important not just for your overall health, but for your dental health as well. Poor nutrition can affect the entire immune system, increasing susceptibility to many common dental problems such as gum disease. Antioxidants and other nutrients found in fruits, vegetables, legumes and nuts improve your body's ability to fight bacteria and inflammation, helping to protect your teeth and gums. In addition, crisp fruits and raw vegetables like apples, carrots and celery help clean plaque from teeth and freshen breath.
So there you have it - five simple and important dental New Year's Resolutions that you may not have known about!
If you have any quessitons or any other dental resolutions we can help you with (even coming in for an examination and hygiene appointment), at Acreview Dental Clinic we are here for you! Feel free to give us a call at 250-338-9085.
