With the first of the new year just a few weeks away, new year’s resolutions are on the minds of everyone. The most popular new year’s resolutions, according to usa.gov, are:
- Drink less alcohol
- Receive a better education
- Obtain a better job
- Get in shape
- Lose weight
- Manage debt
- Cope with stress
- Quit smoking
- Recycle more
- Save money
- Take a trip
- Volunteer to help others
Another New Year’s Resolution for You to Consider
While many people are focused on getting in shape and losing weight in an effort to improve their body image and overall health, most tend to overlook the impact that oral health has on overall health. Even if you’re at your ideal weight and level of fitness, you’re not in good health if your teeth and gums are decaying, infected, or inflamed.
Just how large of an impact does your oral health have on your overall health? Studies show that people with untreated periodontal (gum) disease are much more likely to develop diabetes, heart disease, certain cancers, Alzheimer’s disease, and other serious health conditions than people who have healthy teeth and gums. Additionally, gum disease can lead to an increased risk of stroke, obesity, and pregnancy and birth complications. This is just one example of how an oral health problem can affect your overall health and the quality of your life, so Dr. Jessica Lawson and the Lawson Family Dentistry team urge you to take care of your teeth and gums now to prevent health problems down the road.
A Better You in 2012
In the spirit of the new year, make a pledge to become the healthiest version of yourself by bettering your oral health. How can you do this?
Think about the last time you had a dental appointment. If it was more than six months ago, come in for a professional dental cleaning and exam. At this appointment, our hygienists will remove all of the built-up plaque from your teeth, immediately creating a cleaner, more hygienic environment in your mouth, and screen you for signs of periodontal disease, tooth decay, and other oral health problems. Then, Dr. Lawson will evaluate the health and structure of your teeth, making suggestions for restorative and cosmetic dental work if needed, and screen your mouth for signs of oral cancer and other problems. She will then make recommendations for how to improve your oral health with various dental procedures and treatments, as well as at-home dental hygiene.
These recommendations usually include brushing your teeth at least twice a day, flossing your teeth at least once a day, using an oral rinse, and eating healthy. This is what the American Dental Association recommends as the minimum for at-home dental care, and it’s a great place to start to restore health to your smile.
To reserve an appointment for early in the new year, call Lawson Family Dentistry, serving patients from Urbandale, Waukee, Grimes, and the surrounding areas, at (515) 278-4366.
