Good dental hygiene can do more than just keep your smile bright and healthy. It can also impact your general health, and in some cases, alert you about severe medical conditions. Because good oral hygiene is important, dentist, Kathleen Kujiraoka, DDS, urges patients in Kaneohe, HI, to establish healthy lifestyle habits overall. Doing so will impact one’s oral health, as well as their health in general.
3 Dentist-Approved Lifestyle Changes That Can Impact Your Oral Hygiene
1.Take Your Vitamins
Calcium is an essential nutrient for strong bones and healthy teeth. It can be found in many different foods, including cheese, milk, and even broccoli. If you fail to get the proper dosage of calcium through your diet, consider taking a supplement. Other types of nutrients are beneficial to oral health, including vitamin D, zinc, and potassium, and these can also be consumed in a supplement form.
2. Eat Right
Even if you’re taking supplements, certain foods are integral to good health, especially when it comes to your teeth and gums. You should consume lean proteins, fruits, vegetables, and healthy sources of fat (including nuts). You should also limit your intake of other types of food. Sugar can wreak havoc on your oral health and easily lead to decay. As a result, dentists caution against consuming too much soda and candy.
3. Limit Tobacco & Alcohol
Cigarettes and alcohol can have an impact on your teeth, as well as your overall health. Cigarettes alone are especially harmful, as nicotine can stain your teeth over time and can also cause bone loss. Alcohol dehydrates the mouth, leading to increased bacteria growth (which might eventually cause decay). These are just a few of the many side effects caused by smoking and drinking, which is why limiting your intake is imperative.
At the helm of a trusted general dentistry in Hawaii, Kathleen Kujiraoka DDS and her team are well-known for their skill and compassionate demeanor when treating patients. Schedule your appointment with a family dentist by calling (808) 235-2121. If you’d like more information about the complete range of treatments, feel free to visit this practice online.