We want to think that in 2020, we’re all taking some time to slow down a bit and take in some of the little moments life has to offer each day. However, we all know that in this fast-paced world of on-demand everything and need-it-now attitudes, it can be a real challenge. We have demands coming at us from all sides — home, work, school, etc.
Your Wilmington holistic dentist will be the first to tell you that when life gets busy, sometimes our oral health can struggle. Why? Because regular brushing and flossing are usually one of the first habits or routines that get kicked to the curb when we’re too busy to slow down. This is bad for your smile and bad for your body too.
Before we get too far into the new year, let’s take a moment and take a little break, right here together. We’ll share some helpful, time-saving tips for anyone who says they are too busy to brush.
“No matter how crazy your days are, you deserve excellent oral health and a beautiful, healthy smile,” says Dr. Nammy Patel, DDS author of Age With Style: Your Guide to a Youthful Smile & Healthy Living. Your holistic dentist in Wilmington couldn’t agree more! Dr. Patel suggests keeping water on you and with you at all times. Keep a bottle in your bag or car, at your desk at work, and anywhere else you frequently spend your time. (Try not to use single-use plastic if you can!)
Water is super important for your body in general, but it also helps to neutralize the acid in your mouth that can eat away at your precious tooth enamel. This could lead to increased risk for deterioration, cavities, or decay. If you’re going to drink a beverage other than water, Dr. Patel also suggests using a straw. Place it towards the back of your mouth and sip slowly. Using a straw keeps liquids from touching your teeth that could cause stains or cavities.
If you’re continually moving from one place or meeting, you might want to consider keeping travel and tooth-friendly items on you. You can store them in your desk drawer, briefcase, or car. After a meal, take a second to brush and use a soft tip if you can to help rid teeth of any leftover food debris.
When we’re at our busiest, our bodies also tend to be more stressed. Everyday stressors are tension-causing culprits that wreak havoc on your neck, jaw, and head. When you put your body under this constant stress, it can lead to painful issues with your temporomandibular joint or TMJ. This is where taking some time to relax comes into play. Dr. Patel and your Wilmington holistic dentist agree that you should take time out to relax your jaw and facial muscles. Feel better by gently massaging your jaw, open and close your mouth, and move your tongue from the front to the back of your mouth.
Taking just a few extra steps can make your busiest day feel a little less stressful. We hope you’ve found something here that you can incorporate into your daily routine. If you have any questions about your smile, never hesitate to talk to the team at All About Smiles. We’re Wilmington’s home for trusted holistic dentistry.
It all adds up to better health, smile, body, and spirit!