As the new year draws near, it’s customary for many people to begin making resolutions. If this is something you usually do, why not add a few that promote your physical and mental health? Taking up regular exercise or cementing the habit of regularly connecting with loved ones are admirable goals. Additionally, devoting time to your oral health should be an area of focus too. Poor oral hygiene can lead to adverse health conditions, so make sure to keep up with good oral hygiene habits in the coming year. Just like any other resolution, forming good habits for your teeth and gums will come as a result of your commitment and dedication.

Failure to keep your mouth free of bacteria can lead to infections and tooth decay. Over time, an excessive amount of bacteria in the oral cavity may lead to gum disease, also known as periodontitis. This serious gum infection can cause inflammation that contributes to cardiovascular issues such as endocarditis and even premature birth. People with diabetes or AIDS are particularly vulnerable due to their weakened immune systems. Other health problems associated with poor oral hygiene include head and neck cancer, unhealthy eating habits, and rheumatoid arthritis.

You should see a dentist every six months and brush and floss twice a day to keep oral health problems at bay. You can take steps to maintain your oral health and improve it if it needs to be improved. You will find out if you’re taking proper care of your teeth and gums when you visit your dentist, and this dental professional will offer you expert advice on how to improve your dental health.

As well as avoiding foods that are harmful to your dental health, you should also incorporate nutritious foods into your diet. Avoid foods that have little nutritional value as much as possible. Carbohydrate foods are foods to avoid, so limit your intake of them. Smoking is detrimental to your oral health, so stop using it.

It is important to take good care of your teeth and gums. Your overall health depends on it. If you take good care of your oral health, you can avoid paying large amounts of money in the future for dental care. Practice good oral hygiene from the very start of the new year.