Dental Health Resolution

As we move into a new year, we make resolutions that often center on our health. Many have to do with eating habits, like eating more vegetables and fruits, with a focus on losing weight. The need to stay or get in shape suggests exercising a few times a week to help us meet our goals.

Unfortunately, many well-intentioned plans fall by the wayside. One resolution that is easy to maintain and should be included in our plans to get healthy: taking care of our teeth and gums and preserving our smile.

GOOD

GOOD

Research suggests that dental health plays a large role in our heart and overall health. This can be related to the bacteria in our mouth and their ability to get into blood vessels and ultimately, cardiac tissue. Bacteria also feed off the carbohydrates in our diet and produce acids that cause tooth decay (cavities)

and gum inflammation. That's why it's important to limit sugars, whether in candy, soda or carbohydrate-rich foods.

Dental floss, brushes and water flossers can eliminate these foods. That's why dentists insist that patients practice good daily home care, after meals and before bedtime. Combined with a professional cleaning by a dental hygienist and examination by a dentist two to three times a year, this should keep your teeth and tissue in great shape. Clearly, our mouths play a major role in our lives, as it is the main airway to our lungs that keep us breathing. It is also how we take in nutrition. The ability to break up or grind food so that it can be swallowed is accomplished by our teeth (and if you have ever worn a partial or full denture, you don't take this for granted). The ability to communicate also centers upon the mouth; there is no substitute for the spoken word.

And what about our smiles? The first thing we notice about one another is our smile — or lack of one.

Today's dentistry, with modern materials and techniques, makes a big difference. Dentists can use bonding, bleaching, porcelain veneers, crowns, bridges and dental implants to improve teeth — both cosmetically and functionally. With digital dentistry for X-rays, photos, impressions, and in the fabrication of dental restorations, outcomes have become predictable and, importantly, beautiful.

As we transition into 2023, make a resolution to enjoy a healthy smile for many years to come.