Unexpected New Year’s Resolutions That Boost Oral Health
January 31, 2016
The new year is here, and everyone is making resolutions. While there are obvious advantages to many of the goals that you set, there are also more subtle ways that they can benefit you. Here are some of the ways that your New Year’s resolution can improve your oral health.
Stress Less
One common New Year’s resolution is to find ways to reduce stress. This can help you sleep better, improve your immune system, and even lose weight—but it can also help your oral health. Stress can lead to canker sores, tooth grinding, and even gum disease. In fact, increased levels of stress have been linked to worse gum infections. If you can find ways to be less stressed in the coming year, you can reduce your need to visit a periodontist in Jacksonville, FL.
Quit Smoking
Another popular New Year’s resolution is to stop smoking. If you currently use tobacco, then you greatly increase your risk for gum disease and even mouth cancer. As soon as you quit, your body begins to heal itself, meaning that your likelihood of developing periodontal disease or some other problems will go down.
Eat Less Sugar
Everyone knows that sugar is bad for your waistline, but if you cut back on the sweets you’ll also help your teeth. The bacteria that cause tooth decay and gum disease feed off of sugar that’s left in your mouth, which means that reducing your intake is a good way to improve your dental health. One great resolution that makes your mouth healthier is cutting back on alcohol or soda, both of which tend to contain a lot of sugar.
Better Hygiene
Finally, another great New Year’s resolution is to take better care of your mouth. By resolving to floss more often, brush better, and have regular dental checkups, you can greatly improve your oral health this year. If you’d like to set up an appointment with a periodontist in Jacksonville, FL, for the new year, then call Dr. Walter Wood’s office at (904) 416-1436.