3 Dental Tips for Better Teeth and Health
By Genevieve Cunningham
When we think about our physical health, we don’t usually immediately think about our teeth. We put our dental health into its own category, and for many people, it’s the part of our health that we give the least amount of conscious thought. Sure, we brush regularly, but that’s about where it ends. But the truth is that our dental health can play a big part in our overall physical health. Poor dental health has been linked to heart disease, gum disease, and other serious conditions. To protect both your teeth and your overall health, take a look at these dental tips that you shouldn’t ignore.
Dont Skip the Floss
It’s tempting … it’s really, really tempting on those nights when you’re exhausted and just want to pour yourself into bed. But don’t skip the floss. Floss removes debris that gets trapped between the teeth. It looks so much better, but more importantly, it can keep plaque from building and causing decay between the teeth. If at all possible, spend the extra minute or two to floss thoroughly and protect your teeth.
Brush Longer
Most people don’t brush for long enough. While we think we’re brushing for the recommended two minutes, most are actually not even making it to one full minute. This is possibly leaving plaque and germs inside the mouth, where they can stay and create cavities and gum disease. To remedy this problem, just set yourself a little timer. Use your phone, your watch, or any other timer to make sure you’re brushing long enough to gain the proper benefits.
Cut Back on Sugar
Sugar tastes so, so good, but it’s bad for your teeth. When we eat sugary foods or drink sugary drinks, it’s unlikely that we’re brushing immediately after. This means that the sugar is packing onto your teeth and staying there for hours upon end. Sugar causes both cavities and decay, and the more that we eat, the worse the side effects are likely to be. If at all possible, cut back on the amount of sugar that you consume every day, especially in the form of pastries and sodas.
Besides appearances and making you feel better about yourself, keeping your teeth clean directly affects your physical health. If you’re not already on top of your game, use these tips to protect your teeth now and long into the future.
To learn more about your health and wellness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic.