New Years Resolutions For Better Dental Health

Welcome to a new year filled with resolutions, goals, and, hopefully, new routines. As we move deeper into January, we can determine which habits may stick over the long haul. Hopefully, improved dental hygiene is part of your new routine.

Maintaining your dental health is a lifelong, dedicated commitment. 

Below we will discuss the importance of oral health and offer the possible benefits for you to improve upon that in the coming year.

Why is our oral health important?

Keeping your teeth and gums healthy is more than just a beautiful smile. Your teeth are essential in chewing, aiding digestion, and communicating with those around us. Your smile provides structure to your cheeks and face helping you maintain a youthful appearance. Research has also shown that your oral and overall health are intimately connected; improving the health of your mouth will give added benefits to whole body health.

Benefits of improved oral health

Improved oral and dental health comes with many benefits. Below are a few to take note of.

Tooth decay and gum disease prevention

Following good oral hygiene habits helps to prevent tooth decay and the development of periodontal disease. Brushing at least twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and flossing helps keep plaque, tartar, and bacteria levels at bay. This brushing and flossing keep plaque from breaking down the tooth enamel and causing cavities. It also prevents bacteria from entering and spreading through the gums, causing periodontal disease.

Prevents bad breath

Poor oral health maintenance is a common cause of bad breath (halitosis). Regular brushing and flossing remove the plaque and bacteria to help alleviate bad breath. Scraping the tongue and using an ADA-approved antiseptic mouthwash will help as well. 

A dry mouth is a common cause of bad breath. A decrease in salivary flow can cause decay and bad breath. To stay adequately hydrated for oral health, chew sugar-free gum, drink lots of water, and avoid tobacco products.

Prevents the development of more severe diseases

Dental issues may only be kept in check with good oral habits and professional dental care. Routine dental appointments are essential for finding problems and maintaining good oral hygiene before they become more significant. Professional cleaning with your dental hygienist will remove plaque and tartar that you cannot with brushing and flossing alone.

More serious dental procedures will be needed to address issues left to grow. If plaque and bacteria are allowed to spread without proper care or treatment, tooth decay and periodontal disease will be what you are facing. For example, a small area of tooth decay can be quickly filled and treated. If it is left to grow, it may need a root canal or a tooth extraction.

Poor oral health is also linked to systemic health issues such as heart disease, pregnancy/low birth issues, and Alzheimer’s disease. Improving your oral health will equal an improvement in your overall general health.

Brighter Smile

Regular brushing and flossing are necessary to remove daily surface stains and food particles around the teeth. This is an easy and effective way to keep your smile shining bright.

Regular cleanings with your hygienist do more than check for tooth decay and gum disease. Your hygienist uses special instruments to remove tartar. This will help to remove some of the yellowish stainings on the teeth.

If you are experiencing more severe staining, Dr. Marielaina Perrone may recommend professional teeth whitening procedure for more dramatic brightening of your smile. Healthy eating habits, avoiding overly acidic or sugary foods, and reducing teeth staining products also help keep your smile bright. This will extend the benefits of your dental treatments and boost your confidence as you show off your smile.

Smile Brighter in 2023 And Beyond

If you are ready for a smile makeover, contact Marielaina Perrone, DDS, at (702) 458-2929 to schedule a no-cost cosmetic consultation appointment. We cannot wait to help you with your smile makeover to create the smile of your dreams in Summerlin, Henderson, and Las Vegas, NV.