Most people know brushing and flossing their teeth every day are key to preventing issues like gum disease and cavities. However, less is known about the relationship between oral health and daily life habits. The experienced dentists at Pure Dental Care NY, the premier dentistry practice in New York City, are here to discuss everything you need to know.

Exercise

Weight training and cardiovascular exercise are important for your health, but it’s also necessary to understand how they affect your teeth. When you exercise, you tend to breathe heavily with your mouth open, which dries it out and creates the perfect environment for bad bacteria to grow. Combat this by drinking plenty of water throughout your workout and breathing through your nose.

Diet

The foods you consume can affect both your overall and dental health. Avoid ones that contain lots of sugar, as they combine with bacteria to produce acids that attack the tooth enamel and increase the risk of decay. Instead, opt for foods that are high in calcium, such as dairy products and leafy greens. This mineral helps strengthen enamel and neutralize harmful bacteria.

Negative Habits

Excessive alcohol consumption causes dry mouth, which leaves your teeth more exposed to the acids produced by bacteria. Smoking is also a habit that is harmful to both your teeth and overall well-being, as it increases the risk of oral cancer. If it’s not detected and treated early by a dentist, oral cancer can spread to the rest of your body.

In addition to eating healthy and maintaining good habits, it’s also important to see a dentist twice a year for routine checkups. If you’re in search of practice in the Big Apple, Pure Dental Care NY is known for going above and beyond patient expectations. They offer a broad range of dental care services, from routine cleanings to cosmetic treatments. Call (212) 256-1292 to schedule an appointment, or visit their website for more information about their services.