The Link Between Self Care & Oral Health
September is Self Care Awareness Month. Self care is often neglected in our everyday lives because of everything we have on our proverbial plates. Many of us tend to put the needs of others before our own, but it’s crucial to remember that we cannot fill someone else’s cup if our own is empty. While getting a massage or taking a walk are beautiful examples of taking time for our well-being, self care includes much more than that. True self care is neither self-centered nor selfish; it is simply keeping yourself the focus of your own life. It’s about paying attention to how you feel in each moment, communicating clearly, speaking up for yourself, and saying yes or no…guilt-free.
One form of self care that you may not consider as you ponder the concept is oral health care! When you have healthy teeth and gums, you’ll always smile brighter, which is why we believe that taking care of your teeth and gums is one of the best forms of self care. When you practice daily self care by brushing, flossing, drinking water and relieving stress, you help to keep your mouth healthy and happy, as well as your body and mind.
Here are 4 self care practices for healthy teeth and gums:
Form Good Daily Habits
Ensuring that oral care is part of your regular morning and evening self care routine helps to prevent tooth decay and gum disease. Consistent brushing and flossing is the best way to keep your teeth and gums healthy. We recommend brushing and using a Waterpik or water flosser twice a day. Water flossers remove toxins from between your teeth and below the gumline, and they’re also gentle and easy to use. Also, treat yourself in the dental aisle!
Stay Hydrated
Did you know that when you drink water, you’re also taking care of your teeth? Tooth-friendly snacks like apples and celery can help keep your mouth hydrated, too. A hydrated mouth is a healthy mouth! Drinking water washes away food debris and harmful bacteria, fights dry mouth, and helps prevent acid attacks. Drinking water that contains trace minerals and fluoride also helps to restore and strengthen your tooth enamel.
Relieve Stress
Whether it’s soaking in the bathtub, getting a massage, meditating, or enjoying a tasty treat, engaging in self care can help to relieve stress. High stress levels affect many aspects of our health, including our oral health. Stress weakens the immune system and makes us vulnerable to the bacteria that cause plaque. It can also lead to teeth grinding or trigger unhealthy habits like smoking. Relieving stress will help to keep your teeth and gums healthy.
Schedule Regular Dental Checkups
A professional dental cleaning is like a spa day for your teeth! Regular checkups help detect problems before they start and professional cleanings get rid of plaque in all the places that regular brushing and flossing can’t reach. At Highland Dental Group, our goal is to provide you with a comfortable atmosphere and a stress-free visit.
A new season is always a good time to get back on track and reset. Make sure that you dedicate time to self care this fall as the back to school season enters full swing. Have questions? Contact us to discuss any oral health concerns!
