Health Resolutions That Are Good For Your Teeth

When we think of new year's resolution, health goals are typically at the forefront of people's minds. It may be surprising to hear that health resolutions overlap with oral health. Therefore, your teeth may reap the benefits from seemingly unrelated health goals you may have. That's a win-win situation! Here are some common health resolutions that are good for your teeth as well.

Health Resolutions That Are Good for Your Teeth

• Physical Activity. The gym is always so busy on the first of the year. Many people set their workout goals on New Year's. Why is this good for our oral health? Did you know that when you gain weight, the first muscle to store fat is your tongue? Most people start snoring because of a bigger tongue before they even recognize that they are gaining weight. This can lead to airway issues that affect overall health, including oral health. So committing to working out or increasing physical activity can address some of your breathing issues!

• Nutrition. Committing to eating healthier means less sugar, carbs, and processed foods. Many people focus on eating more whole foods, fruits and veggies. All of these help protect the teeth.

• Hydration. Drinking more water is good for the entire body. But it also helps wash away food, debris, and plaque from the teeth.

• Better sleep. Bedtime routines such as no screen-time, sleeping earlier, or doing relaxing activities right before bed can really improve sleep. This can also reduce clenching and grinding, which are normally a result of overtired muscles and stress.

• Habit Changes. Quitting a smoking habit or reducing alcohol intake are both very food for the teeth. Smoking has led to an increased risk in oral caner, and alcohol intake or drug abuse has been linked with severe clenching and grinding. Get rid of these habits in the New Year and your teeth will thank you.

• Mental Health. Practicing mindfulness techniques, meditating, or seeing a therapist can help improve mental health. This will be reflected in your teeth as well. Reducing stress can help reduce teeth wear. And treating more serious conditions such as depression can improve one's ability to take care of their teeth.

• Preventative Care. Committing to scheduling preventative appointments throughout the year with any medical professional is a common goal. To be fair, when life gets busy, it's something that's easily forgotten. So schedule them now, and rope dental in with it!

If you wrote any resolutions at all for the year, chances are one of these list items made it. If so, good on you! You are already on your way to taking care of your teeth.

We wish you luck on your resolutions! And if you need anything at all, we are here to support you.