Running and Powerwalking!

Running and Powerwalking!
Get fit with me!

Tuesday, December 17, 2013

Healthy Practice Tip #6



I don't know about you, but during the holidays, I definitely find myself eating more sweets and other delicious foods. Therefore, taking care of my teeth becomes an even higher priority! Which leads to healthy tip #6! 


6. Brush and floss.
Your teeth (and gums) reflect your overall health, so take care of them! You probably have the brushing down, but get that flossing going too, every time! See your dentist every six months, and brush and floss after every meal! 
My comments: During one of my annual visits to my dentist, I informed my dentist that one of new health goals was to  brush my teeth after every meal (including snacks) rather than my usual morning and evening routine. I was surprised when she said that if I was rushed for time, she'd rather me floss my teeth rather than brush! Of course I asked her why and her response made sense. Flossing helps remove food bits and plaque from the tight spaces between the teeth and under the gums whereas brushing simply cleans the tops and outer surfaces of the teeth and gums.  By removing plaque when it is in it's early form (soft and pliable) you hinder plaque from hardening and turning into tartar.  But what I learned next was even more interesting. Flossing not only prohibits discolored teeth and bad breath it can prevent other diseases such as heart disease, diabetes and respiratory illness!  I was so intrigued by this information that I dug around for some other benefits of flossing and was astonished at how such a simple activity that takes a few minutes can make such an impact on your overall health! Here are a few links that I came across that list even more benefits of flossing! 
So why not start today and pull out that dental floss sitting in the back of your medicine cabinet and start flossing! 
Stay active and anything is possible!