Monday

Welcome to another week of self-care! Today, we're chatting about:

• The impacts of oral health on your overall health

• Should you brush your teeth in the shower?

• Our favorite fall furniture

• Easy tips to improve your dental health

How Oral Health Affects Mental and Physical Health

While we may think of our teeth and gums as a separate area of our health, our oral health can actually play a big role in our overall well-being!

Individuals with mental health disorders may be more impacted by conditions, including dry mouth, gum disease, teeth grinding, and tooth decay.

Some studies have also linked poor oral health with individuals with dementia, and new research has shown “a link between gum disease and the formation of amyloid plaque,” which is associated with Alzheimer's. More research is needed to understand the true impacts in this area.

Improper dental health can also impact different factors, including “eating, speech, and self-esteem.”

For example, research has shown that conditions like diabetes can increase the impact of gum disease. On the flip side, gum disease has been shown to increase glycemic control in those with diabetes. Those with proper dental care had lower medical costs overall, highlighting the important role our oral health plays overall!

Experts agree that proper oral care — including daily hygiene habits, regular teeth cleanings, trips to the dentist, and other mindful steps can make a world of difference in your oral (and overall) health!

Is It Bad To Brush Your Teeth in the Shower?

In a move to save time and potential mess, some people opt to brush their teeth in the shower. Should this be a regular part of your routine, or does it pose health risks?

Pros 

• Can save time as you can brush your teeth in the middle of other tasks — like letting your conditioner sit in your hair

• Can be less messy, as the toothpaste goes down the drain (and not on your shirt or the counter) if you spill

Cons

• Experts say that brushing your teeth in the shower — especially if you leave your toothbrush in there — can lead to risks from bacteria.

• May not be as effective, as we generally don’t look in a mirror while brushing in the shower as we would at the sink

If you are going to brush your teeth in the shower, dental experts recommend that you still store your toothbrush on the counter between brushes so it has a chance to dry out completely. This will minimize the risk of any bacteria from the shower making its way into your mouth.

5 Reasons We Love Wayfair

Undoubtedly Wayfair is one of the most fun sites to shop. But in a world where every penny matters, we’re looking for more than just fun. We want to save big and purchase quality home goods from a trusted source. You may be wondering, “Is Wayfair legit?” and “Is Wayfair furniture good quality?” We can confidently answer yes to those questions, and when you read Wayfair reviews, you’ll find that thousands of customers agree with us.

But there are even more reasons to love Wayfair. Here are our Top 5.

Thank you to Brad’s Deals for sponsoring Note To Self. 

Easy Tips for Improving Dental Health

Just a few minutes of dental care a day can go a long way! If you’re looking to take your dental health to the next level, here are some small yet mindful tips you can implement into your oral care routine:

• Choose the right toothbrush: Most experts recommend a soft-bristled toothbrush, as it will clean your teeth and gums effectively without damaging your enamel. Furthermore, an electric toothbrush can help provide a more thorough clean, helping you stay on top of your dental health.

• Regularly replace your toothbrush: When’s the last time you’ve replaced your toothbrush (or the head of it, if you use an electric one)? Most experts agree it’s best to swap it out every three to four months to ensure your brush is still working effectively. It’s also a good idea to get a new one every time after you’re sick so it doesn’t harbor bacteria.

• Floss: While it may seem like an annoying extra step, flossing helps remove food buildup between our teeth and helps maintain our gum health.

• Check your other habits: Factors like smoking, not eating a wide variety of foods, and drinking lots of acidic drinks can all impact your oral health.

• Schedule a dentist appointment: If it’s been a while, this is your sign!

Parting Thoughts

• ✅ Did You Know: 1 in 4 adults have at least one untreated cavity. If you haven't been to the dentist recently, this is your sign!

• 🙋🏼‍♀️ Snapshot Of The Day: We'd love to see moments from our readers lives that they are proud of! If you recently accomplished an achievement, experienced a joyful moment, or are proud of a picture you have taken, be sure to capture it on camera and send it to us for a chance to be featured next week! 

• 🎁 Our Holiday Self-Care Picks: Don’t forget to check out our 2024 gift guide, a collection of thoughtful, wellness-focused products that help you feel your best, inside and out. Shop our gift guide here!

• 💭 Final Self-Care Thoughts for Today: Great dental habits — including oral hygiene and going to the dentist — are super important for our overall health and well-being.

Enjoying Note to Self?

Know of a great self-care tip or article you'd love to share with the community? Want to send us pictures of you completing one of your self-care rituals? Email us at [email protected]!