What we eat has a direct affect on both oral and overall health! Busy and on the go, we don’t often take the time to consider how much sugar is in our daily diet and the adverse effects it can have on both oral and overall physical health.
Taking into consideration the daily consumption of sodas and sugary beverages (this also includes sports drinks), most adults today are consuming much more sugar than is recommended by the American Heart Association: 9 teaspoons for men and 6 teaspoons for women. A single can of soda may contain as many as eight teaspoons of sugar!
This often excessive consumption of added sugars causes adverse health affects on both oral health and overall physical well being. Recent studies have shown the connection between our oral health and our overall health: it has been shown that poor dental health is linked to cardiovascular disease, diabetes and an increased risk of stroke. Added sugars also contribute to tooth decay, cavities and gum disease, all of which can lead to complex dental and physical health issues when left untreated. It is more important then ever to visit the dentist twice per year for dental cleanings and a thorough exam!
The dentists and staff of Family and Spa Dentistry in Pennington educate their dental patients on the many benefits of routine preventive dental care- as well as good at home oral hygiene and a healthy lifestyle! Here are some quick tips for reducing added sugars:
- replace a soda or sugary beverage with a glass of water;
- substitute sugary snacks with a piece of fruit or nuts;
- reduce the amount of sugar added to tea and coffee beverages.
Regular preventive care visits allow Dr. Vagnozzi-Bucci and her staff to monitor a patient’s oral health, spotting dental problems in their early stages when conservative treatment is most effective. Regular dental cleanings also provide a thorough removal of plaque build up that brushing at home cannot achieve. At Family and Spa Dentistry, we will take the time to educate our dental patients on effective brushing and flossing to help them maintain optimal oral health between visits.
Maintaining oral health is an important part of good physical health and healthy habits can be the foundation for both!
