We all start the year with lofty goals, and we should. As famous adman Leo Burnett once said, “Shoot for the moon. Even if you don’t get there, you may come down with a handful of stars.” What we’re suggesting isn’t that lofty, and it really isn’t that hard to do. In fact, it’s probably the easiest thing in the world. Here it is: daily tooth brushing.
No exceptions to daily tooth brushing
- If you’re heading to the middle of Algonquin Park for a month, be sure to bring enough toothpaste.
- If you run out of toothpaste at home, use your kids’ toothpaste or go out and buy some more, even if you have to pay a bit extra at the convenience store. Same goes for toothbrushes.
- If you lose power, brush by candlelight.
- If you break both your arms, have someone brush your teeth for you.
- If you’re sick or hung over or just want to stay in bed all day, force yourself up and find the strength.
Just brush.
Because brushing is good for you:
Evidence Supporting Daily Tooth Brushing
- The Journal of the American Geriatrics Society found that people who don’t brush regularly are 65% more likely to develop dementia.
- The American Journal of Medicine found that regular brushing decreases the risk of stroke and heart attack.
- The Journal of Periodontology found that increased brushing decreases the risk of respiratory diseases such as pneumonia and COPD by preventing you from breathing in bacteria.
- Brazilian researcher Dr. Caitia Gazola found that having healthy teeth and gums increases the chances of having healthy babies.
- Your friends and family will find your breath somewhat disagreeable if you don’t brush away the yuck.
And if you need some help staying on track, we are always here to help. Like Rudy Giuliani’s “Broken Window” plan for revitalizing New York City, start small and the big will follow.
