Although other cultures may tease Americans about our fast-food lifestyle and our sometimes indulgent habits, for the most part, we are a society that cares about being healthy. You may be getting more exercise and moving towards a healthier diet. Like many Americans, you may also be making an effort to maintain a healthier, prettier smile. But, did you realize that your healthy body and nice smile have something in common?
As your dentist will confirm, a healthy mouth is the gateway to a healthy body. There is a strong connection between the two, and both must be functioning properly in order for you to enjoy the healthy life that you desire.
Just as you would want to keep the entrance to your home neat, clean, and orderly, you should also recognize the importance of protecting the entrance to your body. What can you do to actively maintain the healthiest “gateway” possible? Here are a few tips:
Keep it clean – Brush and floss with diligence to prevent plaque buildup and gum disease. There is a compelling field of research that highlights the connection between gum disease and your systemic health. The bacterial infection that is gum disease can increase your risk for heart disease, diabetes, and other chronic illnesses.
Prevent injuries -Wearing your seatbelt, resisting the urge to open packages with your teeth, and using helmets and mouth guards during sports can prevent oral and facial injuries. Broken or knocked out teeth can affect your ability to chew and digest the foods that are best for you.
Choose good, clean foods – Avoiding heavily processed or sweetened foods will help to reduce your risk for cavities, but these foods also lack the vitamins and nutrients that your body needs to stay strong.
Stay In touch with your dentist – Numerous health conditions are first identified during dental visits. That’s because the signs and symptoms of many health conditions are manifested in the mouth. The best opportunity for detecting these signs will be during your routine dental exams.
Talk to our dental experts at Richardson Dentistry for more information about keeping your mouth and your body healthy. Call (972) 218-0078 to schedule an appointment today.
