by Joelie Key-Tissot

Nearly every family has its own winter traditions. Baking and exchanging cookies with your neighbors or family members. Running a local race in the name of charity. The most important thing about these yearly traditions is being healthy enough to continue to enjoy them! Obviously, we can’t control when we’ll be faced with a medical emergency, but we can all take preventative measures to ensure overall health. Diet, hydration, exercise and sleep are all key to basic health. But did you know that many diseases and conditions in the rest of your body can start right in your mouth? Not just the food you put in it, but the health of your mouth itself!

“The number of medical conditions related to tooth decay is astounding,” says Dr. Thomas Lomonte, D.D.S. of Stafford. Recent studies have shown that the development of cardiovascular problems like heart disease, blockages of blood vessels and strokes have all been associated with chronic inflammation from gum disease. Many diabetics already know that chronic inflammation of the gums seems to weaken the body’s ability to control blood sugar and utilize insulin. There are even current studies on the effects of gum disease on rheumatoid arthritis, lung conditions and obesity.

Since your annual dental checkup could help you “ace” your annual physical, why not  make it a yearly family tradition? Dr. Lomonte says, “Dental check-ups are worth it for you and your family’s overall health…they are one of the biggest ‘bangs for your buck’ in medicine! Now is your last chance to use up your dental benefits or flexible medical spending accounts before December 31st…and we also offer financing, payment plans, and can draw up a schedule that fits with your budget. Maintaining your oral health will help to ensure the enjoyment of family holiday traditions for many years to come!”

“One of my favorite holiday traditions is our annual Lomonte family Italian Sausage Party. We gather to share Italian food and music, good wine, and take turns mixing and stuffing sausage with our secret family recipe. My dad’s brother, my Uncle Frank, started the tradition, then his son, my cousin, continued it, and now it’s my turn…and my son Matt and my daughter Natalie are learning the secret, too. Whatever your family traditions are, remember…everyone smiles in the same language!”

Thomas M. Lomonte, D.D.S.
12122 Murphy Rd.
Stafford, TX 77477
(281) 530-1440
www.drthomaslomonte.com