By Anna M Avola DMD, MS
It is often said that your eyes are the window to your soul. Perhaps it could also be said that your smile is the window to your overall health! It’s that time of the year again when we start to think about resolutions for the New Year. Of course, the number one resolution has always been to lose weight and get in shape. But we may be forgetting that one of the first things a person sees when they meet you is your smile – let’s get that in shape too!
Dental Solutions for Adults and Seniors has put together a list that you may actually want to use which will keep your smile bright and your health on target for 2020. This list will present the key changes to your daily oral routine that will result in big rewards for the whole year!
Smile Resolution #1: Brush regularly
You should brush your teeth after every meal but when that is not possible, rinse your mouth so that you wash away any food particles. The leftover food particles allow bacteria to grow which can lead to bad breath and other oral health issues such as cavities. Don’t hurry the brushing process but spend at least two minutes each time. Studies have shown that brushing with an electric toothbrush often does a better job than manual brushing. These electric toothbrushes can be especially effective for people with arthritis because gripping the brush is much easier than the manual brush.
Smile Resolution #2: Use the correct products
While it is safe to say that most of dental products available over the counter will work to some degree, it is best to discuss your particular dental condition with your dentist. In fact, most dentists will have products that cannot be found at your local pharmacy that will address your particular needs. As you get older, your gums begin to recede exposing sensitive root surfaces. Fluoride can strength these areas and reduce decay on root surfaces. Be sure all your dental products contain fluoride!
Smile Resolution #3: Floss
Flossing will reach where the toothbrush cannot go and keep the space between your teeth clean by removing plaque. If food particles remain between the teeth, gum inflammation can occur and is where periodontal problems can begin. If left untreated, inflammation spreads to many other areas in our body causing disease. There is an old saying, “floss the teeth you want to keep.” In his book, Beat the Heart Attack Gene, Dr. Bradley Bale advocates the use of floss daily to reduce the inflammation in our bodies which contributes to heart disease – our nation’s #1 killer!
Smile Resolution #4: Include mouthwash to your routine
There are many different variations of mouthwash on the market which may be a source of confusion as to which one is best for you. A good mouthwash not only freshens your breath but also helps kill dangerous bacteria. Many mouth washes contain alcohol which can dry oral tissues. Try to avoid these products. Again, a conversation with your dentist can direct you to mouthwash products that accommodate your particular needs.
Smile Resolution #5: Routine Dental Hygiene cleanings
Let’s face it, as you age the risk of gum disease increases. By age 65, 50% of adults have gum disease! Make an appointment to see the hygienist at your dentist’s office at least twice a year. This is the most effective preventative maintenance routine you can do for 2020! If any issues present themselves, it will be a much less painful and less expensive experience to have found them early. Even with a good daily oral care routine, getting your teeth cleaned regularly by a professional hygienist and examined by the dentist can reduce oral inflammation which will keep not only your mouth healthy but your whole body as well.
Smile Resolution #6: Restore problematic teeth
When you focus on improving your oral health in 2020 include teeth that need restorations. Whether you have missing teeth, cracked or chipped teeth or tooth decay, your dentist will have recommendations for treatment and prevention. Left untreated broken teeth can irritate oral tissue leading to pre-cancerous lesions.
Smile Resolution #7: Stop Smoking
Chemicals in tobacco products affect saliva flow in the mouth, making it easier for oral bacteria to stick to teeth and gums. In fact, smokers are 3-6 times more likely to develop gum disease or periodontal disease! Not only does smoking affect the body’s immune system, it will stain and yellow your teeth. Lower immunity affects how well your body heals after surgery. The CDC (Center for Disease Control) warns us that smoking is a risk factor for gum disease.
Once your teeth are restored and your oral hygiene has become routine, focus on the appearance of your teeth. There are various cosmetic dental treatments such as teeth whitening, porcelain veneers or crowns that can have an amazing impact on your smile!
A brighter smile can make you look years younger. Start your 2020 resolutions with your smile!
Anna M Avola, DMD, MS
Dr. Avola has a general practice focusing on geriatric dentistry. The practice offers comprehensive dental care dedicated to the over 50 crowd! The dental office is designed to accommodate the changing oral health needs due to the normal aging process and the medically compromised patient.
DENTAL SCHOOL:
Tufts University, School of Dental Medicine, Boston, 1978
MASTER OF SCIENCE DEGREE:
Gerontology, Florida Gulf Coast University, 1999
MEMBERSHIPS:
American Dental Association, Florida Dental Association, West Coast District Dental Association, American Academy of General Dentistry, American Academy of Oral Systemic Health
ACADEMIC APPOINTMENTS:
Assistant Professor, Tufts University
Associate Professor, Hodges University
Dental Solutions for Adults & Seniors
(239) 261-1909
dentalsolutionsnaples.com
1172 Goodlette-Frank Road
Colonial Square, Suite 101, Naples, FL 34102