During the winter as we hibernate inside, we face many temptations throughout the season, whether it’s treats at the office, alcoholic beverages at Christmas parties or cookies that were ‘left out for Santa’. With so many indulgences consumed over the winter months, our dental health and hygiene tend to take a back seat. But with the Christmas holidays behind us and the New Year just begun, we’re here to underscore the importance of daily dental hygiene and why it’s necessary to start taking better care of your teeth and gums, especially after the holidays.
Prevent Tooth Decay
With all of the sugar and alcoholic beverages that get consumed over the winter, tooth decay can become a serious concern for your oral health. Regular brushing and flossing help to remove bacteria and plaque that build up in the mouth from sugar and acids, which can eventually result in cavities and even disease. That’s why daily dental hygiene is so important to maintain all year.
Detecting Disease
A fundamental part of maintaining proper dental hygiene is, of course, visiting your dentist every six months. During this time, your dentist will not only give your mouth a thorough cleaning, but they’ll also inspect it for any signs of potential disease. Dentists can detect any irregularities that you may not notice which can highlight signs of disease before they develop and worsen. Some of the common diseases that your dentist will screen for include diabetes, oral cancers, and even heart problems.
Disease Prevention
Did you know that diseases like gingivitis and periodontitis, which originate in the mouth, can also lead to other serious health conditions like coronary artery disease, stroke, and arthritis? Something seemingly simple like inflamed gums can be very detrimental to your health, leading to a slew of other serious problems. In some cases, when teeth and gums go untreated, they can even lead to death.
How to Take Proper Care of Your Teeth & Gums
In order to maintain proper dental hygiene, here are some important points to remember:
- Brush twice per day
- Floss once per day
- Avoid sugar
- Eat a healthy, wholesome diet
- Visit your dentist every 6 months
At Carlingwood Dental, we can help you and your family get back on track with healthier dental habits this year. We’ll perform a thorough examination and offer recommendations for treatment if needed. Reach out to us today to book your appointment.
