RESOLUTIONS FOR A HAPPY AND HEALTHY SMILE IN THE NEW YEAR

New year…new you…new smile? As we wrap up 2018, it’s time for us to look forward to the new year. With the new year comes those new year’s resolutions that put us better off than last year. What will yours be? Pay off your student loans? Go to the gym?

How about committing to being one step closer to healthier dental hygiene? Now that may seem like an overwhelming task, but you would be surprised! By starting just one healthy habit, you can set yourself up for a much better future for your oral hygiene!

Choosing doesn’t have to be too difficult! Here is a list of New Year’s resolutions that you can try next year that will get you on the right track to that happy and healthy smile!

Schedule a Check Up with Your Dentist (and actually show up…)

According to the American Dental Association, approximately one-third of Americans do not see their dentist yearly. You don’t want to be a part of this statistic. By making a resolution to schedule an appointment with your dentist and follow through with your appointment once this year, you increase your chances of fighting gum disease, cavities, and more!

Reduce Sugar Intake

Want to kill two birds with one stone? By reducing the sugary drinks in your life, you’re not only helping your teeth, but also a variety of other health factors. Cutting sodas and other sugary drinks with high acidity will reduce your risk of cavities and save your enamel from eroding away.

Kick the Habit

According to the Centers for Disease Control, smoking doubles the risk of gum disease and, according to the American Cancer Society, smokeless tobacco is a strong contributor to cancer of the mouth and esophagus. By kicking the habit and removing tobacco from your life, your breath, teeth, gums, and overall health will experience a refreshing improvement. 

Commit to Flossing

Brushing your teeth is not the only daily action that is crucial to your dental hygiene. Flossing gets remnants of food and plaque out from in between your teeth and protects your gums in those hard-to-reach areas. Fortunately, traditional dental floss is not your only option! Flossing picks and Waterpiks are effective alternatives. By committing yourself to flossing once a day, you are strengthening your gums and preventing plaque and tartar buildup.

Drink More Water

Staying hydrated has many health benefits, but by drinking 8 oz of water every day, you are sweeping post-meal bacteria that causes tooth and gum decay as well as benefitting your saliva production. Try starting with two bottles of water a day and see if you can tell the difference!

The new year brings all sorts of opportunities form better habits and have a fresh start! Make one small adjustment to your oral health routine and you will be amazed by the results.