Dental health is an often overlooked area of personal wellness. Like eating healthy foods and getting exercise, oral care is part of everyone’s health and wellbeing. Poor dental health is also associated with other medical problems, including heart disease and diabetes, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Luckily, there are a number of ways to reduce your risk of oral disease. Brushing teeth at least twice per day with toothpaste containing fluoride is a good place to start, but don’t forget to floss at least once per day too!
Whenever possible, avoid sugary foods and drinks. Sugar causes plaque to grow, which can then lead to tooth decay. Drinks like coffee, tea, and soft beverages can also stain or yellow teeth, so it is important to consume these only in moderation.
It is recommended that you visit your dentist for a routine cleaning and check-up twice per year in addition to any other visits your dentist may recommend. Taking care to prevent oral disease will save you time, money, pain, and improve your overall health.
For more information on the importance of dental health, please contact your dental provider or the Livingston County Department of Health by calling 585-243-7299 or visiting www.livingstoncounty.us/.
