6 New Year’s Resolutions for Dental Health
With the New Year just around the corner, you may have already started thinking about your New Year’s resolutions. Saving money, staying fit or getting a better job may be on your list of goals for the year ahead. Many people set new goals about maintaining a healthier lifestyle in the new year. Why not make one of your New Year’s resolutions improving your dental health?
Establishing healthy oral habits go a long way toward giving you a healthier and brighter smile in the coming year. Here are a few tips to help get you started in improving and maintaining your dental health:
1. Improve Your Daily Dental Hygiene Habits
To keep your teeth as healthy as possible, we recommend brushing your teeth at least twice a day and flossing at least once a day. We also recommend changing your toothbrush every 3-4 months for a healthy mouth. If you suffer from gum disease, you may need to change your tooth brush as much as every four to six weeks in order to keep any bacteria from spreading.
2. Eat Plenty of Fruits and Vegetables
A healthy diet is important for your dental health. Eating plenty of fruits and vegetables help to boost and improve your immune system and protect you from being susceptible to many common oral disorders, such us gum (periodontal) disease. Antioxidants and other vital nutrients found in fruits, vegetables, nuts and legumes help your body fight bacteria, as well as inflammation. Foods high in antioxidants and nutrients strengthen and protect your teeth and gums. Raw and crisp vegetables like carrots, apples and celery help remove plaque from teeth, as well as freshen your breath.
3. Eat Less Sugar
To keep your teeth healthy and pearly white, limit the sugary snacks and beverages. Sugar found in coffee is also a hidden source of both cavities and calories. Reducing your sugar intake not only reduces your risk for tooth decay, it also makes it easier to manage your weight and reduce your risk for type 2 diabetes. If you cave in and enjoy a sugary treat, make sure to brush after.
4. Quit Smoking or Using Other Tobacco Products
Quitting smoking and tobacco use is the most important step in improving your oral and overall health. Tobacco harms your mouth by increasing your risk for tooth discoloration, gum recession, cavities, gum disease, and throat, lung and oral cancer. Even the use of smokeless tobacco can be just as harmful for your oral health. The great news is that the risk of loosing your teeth decreases after you quit smoking or using tobacco. Talk to your physician, dentist or dental hygienist for help in quitting smoking.
5. Limit Your Alcohol Intake
According to the Academy of General Dentistry, individuals who smoke and consume excessive amounts of alcohol have increased gum recession. Studies have found that smokers who consume alcohol on a regular basis are less likely to brush their teeth on a regular basis and are also less concerned about their overall health than nonsmokers.
6. Schedule Regular Checkups with Your Dentist
Regular dental appointments are essential in keeping your teeth clean and healthy. Your dentist and dental hygienist can monitor your teeth’s health, as well as provide extensive dental care, if necessary. Prevent problems before they start, by being proactive about scheduling your dental appointments. While routine brushing and flossing at home is necessary to keep your mouth healthy, visiting your dentist for a thorough exam and cleaning is absolutely essential. The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends visiting your dentist every six months to ensure your pearly whites stay healthy and your smiles stays beautiful.
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Andrew Kim, DDS is an Escondido dentist providing advanced dental treatment to the Escondido communities and the Northern San Diego area. We make your comfort and oral health our top priority. Book your appointment today!