Make an Oral Health Resolution for 2019 - Premier Dentistry of Eagle

Make an Oral Health Resolution for 2019

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Make an Oral Health Resolution for 2019

Oral Health

As you make your new year resolutions, don’t forget to include taking better care of your oral health in 2019!  Often our resolutions are related to improvements in health, diet and actions that will produce positive changes in our lives.  Creating healthy oral hygiene habits is something that everyone should consider in the coming year, especially since oral health has such a direct impact on your overall health.  This seemingly simple resolution of caring for your teeth, not only benefits your mouth with a healthy, confident smile, but it can also help lower your blood pressure and help prevent heart issues.

When making resolutions, it can be challenging to keep your promises all year long, especially if the goals are too complex. Premier Dentistry of Eagle has put together a simple list of five resolutions that will make a difference in your oral health and ultimately improve your physical health as well.

Resolution #1: Make Sure You Have a Regular Dentist

The first step in the process of resolving to take better care of your teeth, is to make sure you have a dentist that you feel confident in. Dr. Shane Porter of Premier Dentistry of Eagle, is board certified by the American Board of General Dentistry, a distinction earned by only 1 percent of all dentists in America. He graduated at the top of his class at Case Western Reserve University School of Dentistry and earned his Doctor of Dental Medicine degree while amassing many academic and clinical awards. In addition to his educational and professional accolades, Dr. Porter works to establish a personal relationship with his patients and to treat each one in a compassionate and gentle way.

Resolution #2: Quit Smoking and/or Vaping

  • According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) your risk for gum disease is doubled if you smoke cigarettes, or vape. Smoking weakens your immune system and makes it harder to fight off gum infection. Once you have gum damage, smoking also makes it harder for your gums to heal, therefore treatments for gum disease may not work as well for people who smoke.
  • Tobacco use in any form—cigarettes, pipes, cigars and smokeless tobacco (chew)—raises your risk for gum disease, which can lead to tooth loss, and other disease.
  • Vaping, like traditional smoking, can be detrimental to oral health because it brings you into contact with nicotine. Nicotine significantly reduces blood flow, and restricts the supply of nutrients and oxygen to the soft tissues of the mouth.
  • Vaping can cause the gums to recede because of the nicotine, which causes the blood vessels to restrict and decreases blood flow to the gums. When the e-cigarette vapors are burned, it causes the release of inflammatory proteins in the gum tissue which can result in oral diseases such as periodontitis, says the CDC.
  • Reduced blood circulation also inhibits the mouth’s natural ability to fight against bacteria. Infection, decay rates, and other problems all can be accelerated. Over an extended period, tooth loss and other health problems can result from vaping.

Why not make this year the year you quit smoking and take control of your health? Your teeth, gums, and the rest of your body will thank you for it!

Resolution #3: Eat and Drink Mouth-Friendly Foods and Drinks

You are what you eat is a true statement and your diet has a significant impact on the health of your teeth. Sugary and highly acidic food and drinks are bad for your teeth and can lead to plaque buildup, bacteria buildup, and tooth decay. Eating fibrous foods and drinking more dairy products and water, you are able to take better care of your teeth and maintain that healthy smile. This is a bonus two-for-one resolution, as healthy foods are also good for your waistline!

Resolution #4: Brush Twice a Day and Floss Once a Day

While most of us remember to brush our teeth at least twice a day, not as many of us can say that we floss once a day as recommended Make it a habit to floss every day this year–you will do yourself and your mouth a big favor.

  • Brush all the surfaces of your teeth (the sides and the chewing surface on top) for two minutes, twice a day.
  • Floss, preferably at night to remove food and bacteria from between the teeth.

Resolution #5: Make a Dental Appointment Every Six Months

According to the American Dental Association (ADA) you should see your dentist for a professional cleaning and examination every six months. Tooth decay develops in a predictable pattern; therefore, examinations should be set at specific intervals. Once plaque transforms into tartar, it can only be removed by dental professionals.

Depending on the condition of your teeth and gums, you may need to see your dentist more than twice a year, that’s why it’s important to have a scheduled visit with Dr. Porter to see what he recommends for YOUR teeth. Read more in depth reasons to go for dental examinations every six months.

A check-up with Dr. Porter every six months allows him to identify and address any serious issues before they become dangerous to your health.

Call for an Oral Health Consultation

Socrates said, “The secret of change is to focus all of your energy, not on fighting the old, but building the new.” As you focus your energy on the five resolutions outlined, you will be on the road to better oral and physical health.  

The experienced and highly professional dental team at Premier Dentistry of Eagle would like to be part of your resolutions for better oral health in 2019. Contact us for a checkup today at (208) 546-0655 or schedule an appointment with us online!  Our general and family dentistry office provides a wide variety of dental services to patients of all ages. Located at 467 South Rivershore Lane in Eagle, Idaho, we are pleased to provide dental care for patients in the surrounding communities of Star, Middleton, Meridian, Garden City, and Boise, Idaho.

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