Now that all the holiday festivities have passed, it’s time to focus on the future. New Year, new you! While you may be thinking about buying a gym membership or starting to hunt for a new job, don’t forget about your oral health. January is the perfect time to start new habits that benefit your teeth and mouth. Keep reading to discover 5 New Year’s resolutions to achieve and maintain a healthy smile.
#1: Brush Like a Pro
Brushing your teeth won’t save you from cavities if you don’t brush properly. If you want to thoroughly clean your teeth and remove as much bacteria and plaque as possible, be sure to:
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and brush using short, gentle strokes.
- Hold your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to your gumline when brushing.
- Clean the inner, outer, and chewing surfaces of your teeth.
- Brush for a full two minutes each time.
- Brush your tongue as well and rinse with antibacterial mouthwash.
#2: Quit Tobacco
Smoking tobacco increases your risk of gum disease, complications after oral surgery, and oral cancer, among other problems. Not to mention, smoking cigarettes stains enamel and leaves you with a stinky breath! While quitting nicotine isn’t easy, health professionals are specially trained to help people overcome their cravings. Ask your doctor or dentist for their expert advice on how to quit tobacco.
#3: Floss Daily
Brushing and flossing is the perfect one-two punch to knock out cavity-causing bacteria and debris. Even with the proper technique, your toothbrush can’t reach every nook and cranny in your mouth. That’s why you need to floss every day to remove tiny bits of food that get stuck between your teeth. If you don’t like traditional flossing, try using a flossing device or an interdental brush instead.
#4: Adjust Your Diet
You can pursue your weight-loss goals and boost your oral health by eating a smile-friendly diet. This should include plenty of fiber-rich fruits and vegetables along with dairy. In addition, lean meats like chicken contain phosphorous, which is important for strong bones and teeth. Limit sugary foods and beverages and try to avoid snacking in between meals.
#5: Stay Hydrated
Finally, you can boost your oral health this year simply by staying hydrated. Saliva plays an important role in protecting your teeth by neutralizing acids and washing away bits of food. Avoid dry mouth by keeping a refillable water bottle around the house and at work. Health experts usually recommend drinking eight 8-ounce glasses of water per day. You can also chew sugar-free gum to promote saliva production.
Following the five tips above will help ensure you stay healthy and smiling all year round. For more oral care tips, don’t hesitate to contact your dentist in Las Cruces!
About the Author
Dr. Natalie Ortiz has over two decades of experience working in the field of dentistry. An active member of the New Mexico Dental Association, she keeps her clinical skills sharp by taking continuing education courses with Spear Education. For more tips to maintain a healthy smile, visit the Painted Skies Dental Center website or call 575-521-8720.