New Year’s Resolutons

5 New Year’s Resolutions to Keep Your Smile Bright

At the start of the new year, you probably made a list of New Year’s resolutions to help you live a healthier, happier life.  But did any of those resolutions involve your oral hygiene?

Taking good care of your teeth and gums can give you more confidence in your smile and protect you from oral health problems later on.  Try committing to these five dental resolutions to keep your smile healthy, beautiful and bright.

1. Brush and Floss Twice a Day

Lots of people have a morning routine that includes brushing their teeth, but not everyone understands the importance of repeating that routine at night.  After you brush, plaque immediately starts to build up on your teeth throughout the day.  That means between meals and while you sleep plaque doesn’t stop.  Therefore, it’s important to brush away that bacteria twice a day, so it doesn’t have the opportunity to cause decay or gum disease.

And don’t forget to floss twice, too!  Flossing is an often-overlooked step.  It removes the plaque buildup between your teeth where your toothbrush can’t reach.  Flossing decreases your risk for cavities and gingivitis.

2. Cut Back on Beverages that Cause Stains

Indulging in a coffee each morning or a glass or red wine at night might not be the worst thing for your health, but these drinks can affect your smile!  Dark-colored beverages have a habit of staining teeth.  Beverage stained teeth will not give you the white smile you desire and may affect your self-confidence if you don’t want anyone to see your stained teeth.

Although you can reverse the appearance of staining with teeth whitening procedures, it’s much easier (and less expensive) to cut back on these stain-causing drinks to keep your teeth shining white.

3. Drink More Water

Water is a crucial part of total-body health, but it also has a few specific benefits when it comes to oral hygiene. Sipping on water throughout the day helps wash away food particles and some bacteria that cling to your teeth. This can minimize plaque buildup and help you avoid stinky breath!

Drinking water also helps you stay hydrated and produce enough saliva, which helps you avoid dry mouth. Because saliva also helps wash away bacteria and protect your teeth, dry mouth can put you at risk for decay!

4. Replace Your Toothbrush Regularly

When’s the last time you replaced your toothbrush?  For most people, the answer is, “Too long ago.” After repeated use, the bristles on your toothbrush get worn down and become less effective at removing plaque. Brushing with an old toothbrush might make you more susceptible to decay and gum problems.

Most dentists recommend that you replace your toothbrush every three months.  And, dentists always recommend a soft or electric toothbrush.

5. Visit Your Dentist

Brushing and flossing at home is good for routine dental maintenance, but they’re no substitute for a professional cleaning and exam from your dentist.  Visiting the dentist twice a year will ensure your pearly whites stay pearly white.

These visits are also important for spotting early signs of decay or gum disease before your tooth problems progress too far.  During your visit, your dentist will help you create a personalized dental care plan that will keep your teeth and gums healthy.

When you’re making New Year’s resolutions, don’t ignore the importance of oral health! Following these five simple steps can help you prevent dental problems and ensure the lasting beauty of your smile.