A new year is a great time for new intentions!
In 2022, the three most common new year’s resolutions are: lose weight, exercise more, and eat healthier. Here are a few reasons why a renewed focus on oral health can help you accomplish those goals.
Your mouth is the gateway to your body. Research shows that there is a relationship between dental disease and other health problems. Poor oral health can increase inflammation and harmful bacterial growth, creating an ideal environment for dental problems. That same inflammation and bacteria have been linked to heart disease, clogged arteries, and stroke.
Infection from active periodontal disease makes blood sugar control more difficult in diabetic individuals. Uncontrolled blood sugar decreases the body’s ability to fight infections like periodontal disease. This cyclical relationship can intensify both conditions and have severe consequences.
With regular dental checkups, dental professionals can detect and treat inflammation and harmful bacteria before it leads to other health problems. Now is a great time to schedule routine preventative appointments with your dentist, primary care doctor and any other necessary medical professional.
While there are always risks with delaying and avoiding dental treatment, the good news is that you can take control today. Whether it is committing to brushing twice a day, flossing more frequently, or finally scheduling that dental appointment, you can help make 2022 a year to focus on your health!
