February is a very important month for several reasons—it’s love month! In addition to showing your partner, friends, and family some extra love, it’s also the perfect time to give your health some extra TLC. Did you know that your gums affect your overall health and wellness? It’s true! To keep your heart in tip-top shape, it’s important that you keep your mouth clean and healthy. Keep reading for our top tips to continue to show love to your teeth and oral hygiene!
Use Fluoride Toothpaste
Before our teeth come in, our bodies are absorbing fluoride through nutrients to build up a strong resistance to tooth decay. Once our teeth come in, using dental products with fluoride helps keep this defense strong! And when your risk of tooth decay decreases, so does your risk of having a heart attack or stroke.
Cut Back on the Sweets
We know, this one is tough—especially around Valentine’s Day! But the health negatives of too much sugar go far beyond your oral health. Sugar can greatly increase the amount of fat in your blood, which can clog your arteries and result in heart failure. Your teeth and gums are also at risk for acid attacks—this is when the sugar binds with the bacteria already present in your mouth to create acid. Long story short, if you’re craving something sweet, try to reach for fruit or dark chocolate! Both are great alternatives.
Don’t Forget Your Tongue
In addition to helping you avoid bad breath, brushing your tongue is an important part of your oral hygiene routine. Without this step, all of the bacteria and cavity-creating plaque just sit there and can attach to your tooth roots. It’s bad for your gums, too, and can lead to gum disease!
Make Sure You’re Flossing
Much like the tip above, skipping this step leaves harmful bacteria in between your teeth to harden. After it’s stuck on your tooth, it will make its way down to your tooth roots and gums. To avoid gum disease and gum recession, make sure you’re prioritizing flossing in your routine! It’s a great way to show love to your teeth and gums.
Show Love to Your Teeth: Don’t Miss Your Checkups!
The best treatment for things like bad oral hygiene and gum disease is prevention! Two checkups a year is the perfect amount to make sure your teeth are getting professionally cleaned, and that any big issues are caught early on.
Have You Had Your First Checkup of the Year Yet?
If one of your New Year’s resolutions was to prioritize your health, don’t forget to show love to your teeth! Go ahead and schedule your first checkup for the year, and get on top of your oral health. LeCroy Dental offers a warm and welcoming environment where you know you and your teeth are in good hands. Get in touch with us to book an appointment today!