Daily writing prompt

What’s something you do completely differently from how you were raised?

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The first thing that came to mind was dental care. The only time I can remember going to a dentist was when I was young when a front baby tooth was not falling out and my parents took me to the dentist to have it extracted. I think I was in kindergarten or 1st grade. When growing up the only time we went to the dentist if we saw a cavity in one of our teeth. The only daily care was brushing the teeth

Now I go to the dentist twice a year for cleaning and checkup and x-rays every year. Daily home teeth care consists of brushing, flossing, dental pick routine. All of my silver looking fillings have been replaced with composite fillings. No root canals or crowns. I still have most of my teeth. I still have three wisdom teeth. The reason I lost the one is I was eating cornuts once and broke off a corner. My dentist says, “if they don’t bother you, let them be”.

I am a strong believer in oral health care. It not only helps your mouth remain clean and free of disease but also positively impacts your overall body health in numerous ways. When you maintain good oral hygiene, you reduce the risk of developing serious issues, such as heart disease and diabetes, which have been linked to poor dental health. I believe this holistic approach is essential for longevity and well-being. I guess it’s working for me. I am over eighty, and despite the natural aging process, I find myself in pretty good health, vibrant, and full of life, which I attribute, in large part, to my commitment to taking care of my teeth and gums. By prioritizing my dental health, I’ve ensured that I can enjoy a fuller life, with the confidence that comes from a bright smile and the knowledge that I am supporting my entire body.