08 Dec
4 New Year’s Resolutions for Healthier Teeth and Gums
Have you put together a list of New Year’s resolutions yet? The beginning of a new year is a good opportunity to work on eliminating unhealthy habits and picking up healthier ones. At Lifetime Family Dental, we know that good oral health and hygiene can lead to better overall health as well. Learn how to keep your teeth clean and strong with the following dental New Year’s resolutions that will lead to healthy teeth and gums.
Four Dental New Year’s Resolutions: How to Keep Your Teeth Clean and Strong in 2022
1. Brush and Floss Every Day
If daily flossing and twice-daily brushing aren’t already part of your normal routine, now is the time to improve your habits. Regularly brushing your teeth eliminates the plaque that would otherwise attack and break down your tooth enamel. Although flossing every day may feel like a chore, it is essential in preventing gum disease and removing the plaque and food particles that your toothbrush can’t reach.
If you neglect to brush and floss your teeth every day, the plaque on your teeth will harden into tartar. Because tartar is a harder substance, it is much more difficult to remove and causes more wear on your teeth. The more enamel erosion that occurs from exposure to plaque and tartar, the more vulnerable the sensitive pulp inside your teeth will become. Once tooth decay reaches the pulp, it causes pain, sensitivity, and serious oral health issues.
To prevent enamel erosion and protect your teeth, your oral hygiene routine should include:
- Brushing your teeth twice a day for two minutes each time
- Replacing your toothbrush at least once every 4 months to maintain its effectiveness
- Flossing every day
- Brushing your tongue
- Using fluoride toothpaste
- Scheduling regular professional teeth cleanings
2. Quit Tobacco Products
Quitting tobacco products may be a difficult dental New Year’s resolution to commit to, but it is essential for healthy teeth and gums and for improving overall health. Smoking cigarettes, chewing tobacco, and using other tobacco products increases your risk of gum disease, tooth loss, heart disease, stroke, and various cancers. Using tobacco products can also cause cosmetic dental issues like stained teeth and gum discoloration. If your resolutions this year include having whiter teeth, keep in mind that smoking makes teeth whitening treatment less effective.
3. Cut Back on Sweets and Snacks
If you’re wondering how to strengthen your teeth and gums naturally, limiting your intake of sugary sweets is a good place to start. Frequent snacking and consuming foods and drinks that are high in sugar give bacteria more fuel to attack your teeth and weaken your enamel.
When you crave something sweet, try eating some fresh fruit. Crunchy fruits like apples are the best for your teeth, but all fruits are better options for a sweet snack. Just make sure to enjoy citrus fruits in moderation, because they are highly acidic. If you must have a snack, consider eating fibrous vegetables—they can help your mouth clean itself by increasing saliva production.
4. Visit the Dentist Regularly
Regular dental checkups and cleanings are crucial in maintaining excellent oral health. Your dentist can spot signs of cavities, gum disease, and other oral issues early on so you can receive treatment before the problem grows worse.
Dental appointments also offer a good opportunity to discuss any cosmetic treatments you are interested in. If you have yellow, missing, or chipped teeth, or other problems that make you less confident in your smile, the coming new year is a good time to invest in a smile makeover.
Smile Restoration in Gilbert
Is one of your dental New Year’s resolutions to have a brighter, healthier smile? At Lifetime Family Dental in Gilbert, Arizona, we offer a variety of cosmetic and reconstructive dentistry services. From tooth whitening to full mouth reconstruction, we can transform your smile in no time. Call 480-558-4331 today to schedule an appointment.
Images used under creative commons license – commercial use (12/8/2021). Photo by cottonbro from Pexels