Running a business is no easy feat. It requires long working hours, unwavering dedication, and a tremendous focus. In the UK alone, the average entrepreneur works 52 hours each week. With such a hectic schedule, it’s no wonder that many entrepreneurs neglect their personal care, including their dental health.
Your teeth are one of the first things that people notice about you. A great smile can help you exude the confidence and charisma essential for business success. However, good dental health is about more than just appearances.
Poor oral hygiene can lead to gum disease, which studies show is directly linked to increased heart disease and stroke risk. Therefore, taking care of your teeth is important for making a good impression and maintaining your overall health.
But the question is, how can busy entrepreneurs find the time to fit dental care into their already packed schedules?
Here are some tips that can help you stay on top of your dental care:
Find a Reliable Clinic That Offers Different Dental Services
The first step is to find a good dental office that offers your needed services. This will save you time and effort in the long run. When you need basic dental workouts or require emergency dental care, you won’t have to look elsewhere since your dentist will be able to provide everything you need
The right clinic will have a team of specialists who can cater to your specific dental needs. Your dentist should be able to provide basic dental services such as teeth cleaning, fillings, and crowns, as well as more specialized services like teeth whitening, teeth replacement, gum therapy, and cosmetic dentistry.
It would be better if you can find a dental clinic that provides same-day dental services. Suppose you run into a dental emergency and have urgent business matters to attend to. In that case, you can immediately count on your dentist to provide the care you need. Do enough research, ask for recommendations, and look for a clinic with a patient-first care model to ensure you’re in good hands.
Schedule Regular Check-ups and Teeth Cleanings
Once you’ve found a reliable clinic, the next step is to schedule regular check-ups and teeth cleanings. This is one way to save resources in the long run. By catching dental problems early on, you can avoid more serious and costly issues down the road.
Many entrepreneurs use the excuse of lacking time to skip regular dental appointments. However, neglecting your oral health can lead to many problems, such as bad breath, gum disease, tooth decay, and even tooth loss.
Experts recommend that patients go for teeth cleaning every six months. For those with history of oral health issues like gum disease, dentists may recommend more frequent cleanings. Between professional cleanings, brushing and flossing your teeth daily can help remove plaque and bacteria.
Caring for Your Teeth While at the Office
Just because you’re at the office doesn’t mean you can forget about your dental care. To make sure your teeth stay healthy even when you’re busy with work, keep the following tips in mind:
- Keep a toothbrush and toothpaste at your desk so you won’t forget about brushing after meals.
- Another good idea is to chew sugarless gum. Chewing gum helps produce saliva, which is nature’s way of washing away food particles and bacteria. It also helps prevent bad breath.
- If you’re snacking on unhealthy foods, brush your teeth as soon as possible.
- When drinking coffee and other high-acid drinks, wait at least 30 minutes before brushing. These drinks can soften tooth enamel, making it more susceptible to damage.
Best Practices When Traveling for Business
If you frequently travel for business, taking care of your teeth is crucial. When you’re on the go, it’s easy to let your dental hygiene habits slide. Here’s how to ensure your teeth stay healthy while you’re away from home.
- Schedule a quick dental cleaning or check-up before you leave on your trip
- Always pack a travel-sized toothbrush, toothpaste, and floss in a dry, clean container
- Avoid sugary and acidic drinks, which can damage your teeth
- Chew sugar-free gum to help clean your teeth and freshen your breath
- Be mindful of what you eat and drink while traveling
- Use bottled water if you are unsure about the quality of tap water
Dental care may be the least of your worries when running a business. But remember that good oral health promotes physical fitness while improving concentration and focus. When you feel good about yourself, it shows in your work. So don’t forget to take care of your teeth!
