wellness information
Dental Wellness
GatorCare Wellness is committed to enhancing dental health through comprehensive education and support, aimed at promoting positive behavioral and lifestyle changes. By adopting simple oral hygiene practices and scheduling regular dental check-ups, you and your dentist can work together to reduce the risk of dental diseases like cavities, gum disease, and tooth loss.
What is oral hygiene?
Oral hygiene is the practice of keeping your mouth, teeth, and gums clean and healthy to prevent dental diseases. It’s normal to have occasional issues with your teeth or gums, but when poor oral hygiene becomes a habit, it can lead to serious dental problems such as cavities, gum disease, and tooth loss. For most people, maintaining good oral hygiene involves regular brushing and flossing, along with routine dental check-ups.
Why is oral hygiene so important?
Good oral hygiene helps to:
- Prevent cavities by removing plaque and food particles from teeth.
- Avoid gum disease, which can lead to gum recession, tooth loss, and infections.
- Maintain a fresh breath by reducing the buildup of bacteria.
- Protect overall health, as dental issues can contribute to other health problems like heart disease and diabetes.
Left uncontrolled, poor oral hygiene can lead to:
- Tooth decay and cavities
- Gum disease (gingivitis and periodontitis)
- Tooth loss
- Bad breath (halitosis)
- Oral infections
- Increased risk for chronic conditions such as diabetes and heart disease
Are you at risk?
Several factors can increase the risk of dental issues:
- Poor oral hygiene practices
- High-sugar diet
- Smoking or tobacco use
- Excessive alcohol consumption
- Family history of dental problems
- Certain medical conditions, such as diabetes and HIV/AIDS
- Certain medications that reduce saliva flow
- Age – older adults are at higher risk for gum disease and tooth loss
Reduce your risk by following these 8 steps:
Dental Resources
Engage with these resources for promoting dental health through nutrition, fitness, and lifestyle change. Resources include dental resources, streamed fitness classes, nutrition challenges, meditation resources, and more.
Dental Resources
U.S. Center for Disease Control and Prevention
Visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention site to learn more about protecting your oral health, preventing oral diseases, and to learn more about oral tips for adults and children.
Dental Resources
Florida Department of Health
Visit the Florida Department of Health’s Dental Health Resources page to find your local dental provider. The site offers a comprehensive list of dental services and resources available in your area.
Dental resources
American Dental Association
Explore a wealth of resources on oral health topics at the American Dental Association’s ADA Library, covering everything from preventive care to treatment options.
Nutrition Resources
wellness challenge
Meatless Mondays
Join our Meatless Mondays challenge to discover the benefits of plant-based proteins. Receive weekly recipes, tips, and resources to help you incorporate delicious and nutritious plant-based meals into your diet. Make a positive impact on your health and the planet!.
interactive presentation
Mindful Eating
Explore this interactive virtual presentation to learn the why, when, what, and where of your eating cycle to break any unhealthy eating behaviors. Learn to eat with intention and enjoy your food.
Fitness Resources
wellness resource
Live-Streamed Classes
Join your GatorCare Wellness Team for weekly live-streamed wellness classes. Strength, cardio, stretching, and meditation are all available.
wellness resource
Pre-Recorded Classes
UF RecSports offers hundreds of recorded interval training, core, yogalates classes, and more. Ranging from 30-60 minutes, these classes will help you achieve your fitness goals wherever you are, whenever is best for you.
Wellness Resources
Wellness Challenge
Healthy Lifestyle Program
Join this six-week virtual series exploring different elements of creating a healthy lifestyle. Session topics include goal setting, physical activity, nutrition, energy balance, stress management, and resilience. Participate at your own pace.
wellness resource
Meditation Resources
Explore our meditation and relaxation resources, including live-streamed classes, pre-recorded sessions, and a self-guided meditation challenge. Sign up for a weekly mindfulness email and receive presentations by field experts.
