Thanksgiving is a time to gather with loved ones and reflect on all the things we’re grateful for. While your oral health may not be the first thing that comes to mind when counting your blessings, having a healthy smile is truly something to be thankful for.

Why Oral Health Matters

Oral health is more than just having a beautiful smile. When you have healthy teeth and gums, you can chew and speak comfortably, enjoy your favorite foods, and smile with confidence. But when oral health problems arise, they can affect more than just your mouth. Research links poor oral health to a range of bigger health issues.

A Strong Heart

Studies have shown that people with gum disease are twice as likely to develop heart disease as those with healthy gums. The bacteria that cause gum inflammation can actually contribute to the buildup of plaque in the arteries, increasing the risk of heart attack and stroke.

Combat Diabetes

Gum disease and diabetes have a two-way relationship. People with diabetes are more prone to developing gum infections, and those infections can make it harder to control blood sugar levels. The good news is that managing your diabetes can benefit gum health, and treating gum disease can help improve diabetes control.

Resist Respiratory Infections

The same bacteria that cause gum disease can also trigger respiratory infections like pneumonia. Going into cold and flu season, we all want to avoid anything that can make us more susceptible. This is especially concerning for older adults and those with weakened immune systems.

A Healthy Pregnancy

Pregnant women with gum disease are more likely to experience premature delivery or to deliver low birth weight babies. Hormonal changes which occur during pregnancy can make gums more susceptible to inflammation and infection, so it’s especially important for expectant mothers to practice excellent oral hygiene.

Thankfully, many oral health problems are preventable with proper care and regular dental visits. By brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and seeing your dentist for check-ups and cleanings, you can keep your mouth healthy and avoid costly and painful problems down the road.

Celebrate Your Smile This Thanksgiving

As you gather around the Thanksgiving table this year, take a moment to appreciate your healthy smile and all it allows you to do. Here are a few ways to show your appreciation for your health and your smile.

Enjoy Your Favorite Foods

While a healthy diet is important most days, an occasional splurge is okay. Thanksgiving is a time to indulge in delicious seasonal foods like turkey, stuffing, and pumpkin pie. If you have healthy teeth and gums, you can enjoy these treats without discomfort or restriction. Take a moment to appreciate the indulgence, and get back to your healthy diet after the holiday.

Share a Laugh with Loved Ones

The holidays are a time for laughter and connection with family and friends. When you feel good about your smile, you’re more likely to let your joy show. Don’t be afraid to laugh and smile. Not only does it make you happier, it has additional health benefits.

Recommit to Your Oral Health Routine

As you count your blessings, consider making a commitment to prioritize your oral health in the coming year. Maybe that means being more diligent about flossing, cutting back on sugary drinks, or scheduling that overdue dental check-up. Small changes can make a big difference in the long-term health of your smile.

Thanks From Your Dental Team

As your dental team, we are always thankful to see you! Whether you come in for your regular check-up and cleaning or are having a cosmetic or other dental procedure, that means you are proactively taking care of your oral health. If it’s that time of year, give us a call today to schedule your next appointment.

From our family to yours, Happy Thanksgiving!

 

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