Now that 2024 has arrived, are there any New Year’s resolutions that you want to commit to? If you have any concerns about your oral health, you may want to consider making a few changes that can help you take better care of your teeth and gums. Below are 4 ideas for New Year’s resolutions for dental patients who want to protect their smiles throughout the coming year.
1. Start Brushing Longer
Far too many people don’t spend nearly enough time brushing their teeth, meaning they have a tendency to miss a lot of plaque. Since plaque can lead to cavities and gum disease if it’s left alone for too long, it’s important to make sure you’re getting rid of as much of it as possible.
To ensure that you’re thoroughly cleaning your teeth, you should get in the habit of brushing for two minutes at a time. Be sure to set a timer whenever you pick up your toothbrush so that you have a way to confirm that your brushing session lasts as long as it needs to.
2. Drink Less Soda and Juice
Many sodas and juices tend to be acidic, meaning they can wear down the enamel protecting your teeth. On top of that, they contain a lot of sugar that can encourage the growth of cavity-causing bacteria. In short, indulging in too much juice and soda can potentially lead to major oral health issues. This year, you can make an effort to keep your smile safe by reducing your consumption of these beverages.
3. Start Flossing Every Day
There are areas of your mouth that you can’t easily reach with a toothbrush. If you aren’t flossing daily, then these areas will go uncleaned, which can increase your risk for gum disease. As such, if you don’t already floss regularly, it’s highly recommended that you start as soon as possible.
You may have trouble remembering to floss at first, so take whatever steps you can to remind yourself. This could involve putting a sticky note on your bathroom mirror or putting your dental floss on top of your toothpaste.
4. Start Eating More Smile-Friendly Foods
Plenty of people resolve to start eating better during the new year. If you’re looking to make a few improvements to your diet, try focusing on foods that promote oral health. Fruits and vegetables are great choices since they contain nutrients that are good for your gums.
Your smile deserves a fresh start for the new year. If you need some help deciding on a dental resolution, talk to your dentist; they can give you an idea of what your current oral health needs are and what kinds of changes you should make.
About the Practice
At Collinsville Dental Associates, our dentists have been providing families in our community with comprehensive dental care for more than three decades. We always take the time to treat our patients like individuals and tailor their treatments according to their needs. If you would like to schedule your first dental appointment of the year with our team, visit our website or call (276) 647-1494.