Elkins Dental - April 2023

MOTIVATION ISN’T ENOUGH How to Create Healthy Habits

you usually say to yourself? Once you can identify your trends and patterns, you can start changing your thinking and actions. Developing a healthier routine doesn’t happen overnight — it takes time, patience, dedication, and testing. Therefore, it’s best to start small and make progress each day. You can change one habit at a time until completing that task is second nature. Then, modify another habit until your routine is filled with actions that align with your goals and values. So, the next time you’re not feeling motivated and want to skip or delay one of your tasks, don’t!You made a routine and

“I’ll complete this task when I feel motivated.” You may have told yourself or heard others say this sentence more times than you can count. Unfortunately, motivation alone will not help you fulfill your goals or complete your tasks. You aren’t going to“feel”motivated every day, so choosing what to do and not do based on a feeling will only get you so far. But not all hope is lost! There is something you can do to help you complete all of your daily items and goals. Instead of relying on motivation, create habits that will get you into the routine of conducting and completing different activities. Habits are extremely powerful and can shape our lives either positively or negatively — depending on the habits we create. We can have routines that support our

values and goals or practices that don’t, making life harder than it should be.

Creating healthy habits is essential because the next time you don’t “feel like it,” it won’t matter — you’ll have a schedule and routine to ensure tasks will be completed. The best way to stick to your goals and values is to make healthy habits. How do you create healthy habits? Before you can create new routines, you first need to be

created healthy habits, and now it’s time to stick to them. Even when you don’t feel like doing something, do it anyway. You may be surprised by how productive you’ll feel.

aware of the habits you have now. What do you

typically do when you want to finish something but don’t feel like doing it? What do

A Word From Cheyenne & Ashlee

The Link Between Diabetes and Your Oral Health

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, about 11% of

Gum disease — When the bacteria in your mouth isn’t kept at a healthy level, gum disease can threaten your gums, tissue, and facial bones and structure. If you suffer from diabetes, it’s important to work with

Americans suffer from diabetes. For those with both Type I and Type II diabetes, their

oral health can suffer. In fact, periodontal disease is present in roughly 22% of those diagnosed with diabetes. To best protect your teeth and gums, it’s important to go the extra mile to maintain your oral health, which in turn, can affect your overall well-being.

your dentist to manage your oral health. Deep cleanings, frequent check-ups, and a good oral health routine contribute to your overall health and make it easier to manage your blood sugar and control the disease. If you have diabetes, to safeguard your health, eat a healthy diet, take your recommended medication doses, and make your oral health a priority! Call us today to schedule your reservation for your check-up and/or cleaning! We are looking forward to seeing you.

Diabetes affects your mouth in many ways, including:

Dry mouth — Diabetes can lead to less saliva production. Without proper amounts of saliva, cavity-causing bacteria have a more difficult time being washed away, and you may experience tooth decay.

Loss of taste — Diabetes can lead to a decreased ability to taste food.

Infection — Those suffering from diabetes may have an increased chance of small cuts or sores in their mouth becoming infected. Sensitive/Irritated Gums — Red and swollen gums are also indicative of early signs of gum disease, or gingivitis, which can affect your overall health.

–Cheyenne & Ashlee Registered Dental Hygienists

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