Improving your health and keeping more money in your bank account – that’s an excellent win-win situation. There are many New Year’s resolutions to help you in both respects, and the ones that involve elevating your oral health certainly qualify. You can alter your daily oral hygiene regimen, and before long, you’ve changed a problematic behavior without even thinking about it. Keep reading for suggestions from your dentist in Flint on New Year’s resolutions for a healthy smile.
Resolution #1: Quit Using Tobacco Products
Smoking and the use of other tobacco products invite oral health problems and stain your teeth. Nicotine is highly addictive, but consulting a medical professional for insight on quitting can help you break free of the urge.
Resolution #2: Make Healthier Choices with Your Diet
Your diet can have a significant impact on your oral health. Steps to improve your diet can include limiting your consumption of sugary or acidic foods and beverages, reducing snacking, rinsing your mouth with water after having meals or sugary drinks, and eating lots of fruits and veggies.
Resolution #3: Implement Helpful Oral Hygiene Habits
Some examples of stellar dental care to power up your smile include gently brushing twice each day with a soft-bristled toothbrush, holding your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to your gumline, using fluoride toothpaste, flossing, or utilizing an interdental brush once per day, and rinsing with mouthwash after brushing.
Resolution #4: Combat Dry Mouth
Your saliva is crucial to maintaining the health of your teeth and gums, as it provides your enamel with minerals, neutralizes acidity, and helps wash away food matter and debris. Fortunately, there are many ways to reduce dry mouth like chewing sugar-free gum or drinking milk to increase saliva production, drinking water regularly and especially before bed, and avoiding excessive alcohol consumption or using illegal drugs.
Resolution #5: Visit Your Dentist Every Six Months
The best way to stop dental issues in their tracks is to detect them early or prevent them from happening in the first place. Regular visits to your dentist will help ensure that no problems go unnoticed or develop into something more serious.
Following through on New Year’s resolutions for a healthy smile is an excellent, money-saving choice. Allow yourself enough time for your new routine to morph into habits. For more helpful ideas, talk to your dentist during your next appointment!
About the Author
Dr. Steven Rodriguez earned his dental doctorate from the University of Michigan. Today, he still regularly pursues continuing education in order to expand his clinical skillset which includes advanced training in dental implants, root canal treatment, and clear aligners. Dr. Rodriguez and his fellow dentists at Healthy Smiles look forward to helping you with Resolution #5. You can schedule an appointment on their website or call (810) 720-6433.