What New Year’s resolution did you make this year? To exercise more often? Eat healthier? Be more financially responsible?
One resolution that can pay off in ways you may never have considered is to improve your dental health.
Take care of your teeth and they’ll help take care of you
A nice smile can help you feel good about yourself. A healthy mouth can also help you have a healthy body. In fact, a study published by the National Institute of Health found that the number of teeth we have as we age can potentially affect our life expectancy.
According to the American Dental Association, your daily dental habits should include:
- Brushing at least twice a day (for at least two minutes)
- Using a fluoride-based toothpaste
- Flossing at least once a day
- Drinking lots of water
- Limiting sugary food and drinks
- Not using tobacco products
Stop problems before they start
If you experience tooth pain, bleeding gums, swelling, or blisters that won’t heal, these could be signs of periodontal disease (advanced gum disease), which can result in tooth loss if left untreated.
If you take care of your teeth each day and schedule regular visits with your dentist (at least twice a year), you can have a confident smile and enjoy better health!
Find a dentist
If you need a dentist, you can find one at arkansasbluecross.com.