If you’re like most of the world, your diet is likely part of your “New Year’s Resolutions.” Might we suggest an addition to the list? Make 2021 the year that you take great care of your teeth! Here are ideas for doing just that!
- Enjoy everything in moderation.
Most health experts agree that the most important component to a healthy lifestyle is that you make it a habit. If you work out regularly, avoid unhealthy foods and eat lots of lean meats and greens, your body will be fit and far less likely to succumb to disease. But if you demand absolute perfection of yourself, your plan is doomed to fail. Instead, stringently follow a healthy regimen 80 percent of the time, allowing yourself guilt-free indulgences two or three times each week. Studies show that people who refuse to make allowances for special occasions and favorite foods end up binging later. So enjoy the foods you love and periodically take a short break from exercise to give your body some rest. However, never abandon your commitment to total overall health. - Substitute sugar.
According to NHANES (National Health & Nutrition Examination Survey), Americans eat about 20 teaspoons of sugar a day. Excessive sugar consumption not only leads to weight gain; but is also one of the primary causes of the obesity epidemic and metabolic disorders such as diabetes, as well as cardiovascular disease. Admittedly, most Americans have a sweet tooth. So is it possible to partake of sweet treats like cake and candy without disrupting our hormones and overtaxing our pancreases? Studies confirm that virtually any form of sugar is preferable to high fructose corn syrup, which is a staple in most commercially prepared desserts. So avoid anything that comes in a box. Make your own, using natural alternatives such as maple syrup, honey or Stevia. - Enjoy healthy alternatives.
First, make sure you are drinking plenty of water, which will fill you up and flush your body of toxins. Also, consider periodically fasting, which will clean out your system and make you more prepared to return to the table, able to avoid eating sugary treats. If you train yourself to reach for fruit for dessert instead of sugar-laden snacks, your body will thank you for it. - Make dental care at home a priority.
After enjoying a sugary snack, make sure you immediately brush your teeth and floss, if possible. Sugar that is allowed to sit on teeth produces acid, which can wear down enamel and its underlying layer, dentin. Also, avoid eating gummy candies which nestle between teeth, making it nearly impossible for saliva to wash the sugar away. And keep your regular dental checkups! While you may be able to come up with hundreds of excuses for why you can’t make it to your dental appointment, it’s critical that you keep up on regular exams and cleanings. A dentist can reach areas between your teeth that your toothbrush, floss or even a Waterpik can’t reach. - Regularly visit your dentist.
Even if you faithfully eat healthy food, avoid sugary snacks and brush and floss regularly, your teeth need professional attention on a regular basis. Make sure you visit Dr. Fred Wong at Blue Ocean Dentistry at least twice a year. Faithfully keeping appointments will ensure your mouth remains in good health. We can catch tiny problems before they escalate into major mouth-malfunctions. In fact, why not call today to schedule an appointment for 2021! (626) 852-6999.
About Dr. Fred Wong of Blue Ocean Dentistry
Dr. Fred Wong and the staff at Blue Ocean Dentistry use the latest available dental treatments, equipment, and materials – all of which make a marked difference in our patients’ experiences. We are committed to helping our patients achieve optimal dental health. We creatively combine dental science and artistry — which can literally redesign your smile. Since even a subtle change in your smile will help you to project self-confidence and high self-esteem, we love helping you feel good about yourself. We deliver the finest dental care at the most reasonable cost and accept most dental insurance plans as well as CareCredit. For more about the dental treatment plans we offer or to schedule an appointment, call today (626) 852-6999.