As 2019 comes to a close, are you planning on setting any health goals for next year? Many people start a weight loss regime or new exercise routine at the beginning of the year, hoping it will make them look and feel better. But there is another health routine that can be just as beneficial that most people often overlook. Can you guess what it is?
Good oral health is one of the foundations of keeping you looking and feeling healthy. In fact, your mouth is a window to the overall condition of your body. For example, diseases that affect the entire body, also known as systemic diseases, can first be identified in your mouth as oral problems, such as mouth lesions.
Here are ways you can help keep your dental health in check so you can stay healthy throughout the year:
- Brushing and flossing: We can’t say it enough. Brushing your teeth at least twice a day and flossing at least once daily can keep tooth decay, gum disease and more serious dental problems at bay. It’s amazing what a toothbrush has the power to do!
- Regular dental checkups: When you come in to see us for your biannual checkups, we do more than just clean your teeth. We look for any changes in your teeth and gums that are warning signs of a bigger problem. Oral cancer screening is also an important part of what we do.
- If you notice any dental changes or pain, don’t ignore it. Early intervention of tooth or gum issues means they’re more easily treated, which will be less of an inconvenience to you.
- Don’t delay recommended dental treatments. When restorative treatments like crowns or implant restorations are suggested to maintain the health of your teeth, they are recommended for good reason. It’s our job to prevent further damage and today’s dental techniques give us the ability to do so quickly and effectively.
Whatever your New Year’s resolution might be, keep your dental health in mind. From all of us at Michelle Munoz, DDS, we wish you and your family happy holidays.
