It’s a new year, and many people are embarking on New Year’s resolutions that capture their ideals and hopes for the coming year. Some have resolved to lose weight. Others have resolved to maintain a regular exercise routine. And still, others are resolving to watch what they eat, and maintain a healthy, balanced diet. What is your New Year’s resolution, and does it include a renewed dedication to your dental care? The turn of a new year is a great time to revisit your dental care routine and renew your commitment to maintaining a healthy mouth.
- Cleaning your teeth – Let’s start with the basics. How are you brushing your teeth? Are you content with your toothpaste, or do you need to find one that meets your needs better? It’s helpful to remember to brush two times each day, for at least two minutes each time, using a soft-bristled toothbrush. If your toothbrush does not fit your mouth—making it difficult to reach all areas of your mouth—you should find one that does. Perhaps it is time that your dental care routine included an electronic, ADA-approved toothbrush. If you want to explore this option, make sure you ask us about the best electronic toothbrush for you. We have some great suggestions tooth care product suggestions to share.
- Switch to sugarless gum. – There’s no better time to begin buying sugarless gum, instead of the normal sugar-laden variety. Watch for the ingredient Xylitol and make sure the gum you purchase contains this sugar-free sweetener that can help prevent tooth decay.
- Flossing – If you’re like most people, we can tell to fall in and out of the habit of flossing our teeth. Whether you prefer the traditional tape dental floss or want to try one of a more modern option like a water flosser, find the approach that fits you best. Whatever your excuse for not flossing (we hear lots of them), the benefits for your dental care are too great to ignore. If you’re concerned about your technique or have questions about which is the best dental floss method for your situation, we can definitely help.
- Time for a dentist office visit – If you are behind with your visits to the dentist office, never fear! It’s never too late to start. You may or may not be experiencing problems, but the new year is a great time to make your oral health a priority. The perfect way to begin new and improved dental habits is by making an appointment to have your teeth cleaned and examined. Start by looking for a dentist nearby, visit the website, and book your appointment. If you are anxious about your visit, tell us. We would love to set your mind at ease and discuss ways that we can make you more comfortable during your visit. Make us part of your new dental care plan, and your mouth (whole body) will benefit.
- Quit something. – Most New Year’s resolutions include things people want to start doing–new habits, new routines, new experiences. But some of the healthiest resolutions include quitting things like smoking or eating too much sugar. Cutting out either or both of these habits have far-reaching health benefits, but can have dramatic benefits for your mouth. Your new dental care resolve should include cutting out things that harm and damage your teeth through decay and erosion or cause harmful illnesses and disease. Quit smoking. Make healthy dietary choices, including decreasing your sugar intake. Resolve to remove these harmful habits from your life. Your body—and mouth—will be better for it.
This is a great time to revisit and rethink your dental care. Build your brushing and flossing into your daily routine, so that it becomes second-nature. You will be surprised how quickly it can become something you do that you hardly notice. Then call us to schedule your next dental appointment. We have made it so easy too—just fill out our online form! You don’t even have to make a phone call. Just click on the “Book an Appointment” button at the top of our website. We are excited to partner with you in making 2017 the best year yet for your teeth.