The end of the year is approaching quickly, and do you know what that means? 2022 will be here before you know it! If you’re like most people, you’ve probably already started making your list of New Year’s resolutions. Many like to think of ways to increase their health and wealth in the coming months. Well, by choosing to make your resolutions surround your dental care, you can create a win-win situation for both your oral health and financial situation. Read on to learn how you can keep a healthy smile all year long.
Establish New Habits
If there are any positive changes you want to make in your life, now’s the perfect time to commit to them, especially if they involve your oral health! You can easily improve your smile by enhancing your dental care routine, kicking bad habits to the curb (i.e., smoking, chewing your fingernails, using your teeth as tools), and sticking to a healthier diet. Once you integrate these changes into your daily schedule, they’ll turn into habits before you know it. After some time, they’ll become permanent fixtures in your behavior and routine.
Practice Good Oral Hygiene
Do you take proper care of your teeth and gums? It’s easier than you may think! Taking the time to practice good oral hygiene can have a profound effect on your oral health. Not only will your teeth shine brighter, but your gums will feel less sensitive as well. To keep your smile in tip-top shape, you should brush your teeth at least twice a day, floss daily, and rinse with an antiseptic mouthwash.
Make Better Dietary Choices
Believe it or not, your diet has a significant impact on your oral health. The foods you eat can provide nourishment for the bacteria in your mouth, potentially increasing your risk of several oral health problems (i.e., cavities, decay, gum disease). You can protect your mouth from these issues by sticking to a healthy diet. That means limiting your consumption of sugary, acidic, and starchy foods, reducing snacking between meals, and eating lots of nutrient-rich foods like fruits, vegetables, dairy products, whole grains, and lean proteins.
Avoid Dry Mouth
Your saliva plays an essential role in keeping your oral health in optimal condition. Not only does it provide your enamel with minerals, but it neutralizes the pH level (or acidity) and helps wash away debris. As a result, a dry mouth can contribute to multiple dental problems. A few ways you can avoid it are by chewing sugar-free gum, consuming dairy to increase saliva production, and drinking plenty of water.
Visit Your Dentist Regularly
A healthy smile requires more than just brushing and flossing. You must visit your dentist every six months for a checkup and cleaning as well. These routine appointments allow your dentist to prevent, detect, or treat issues before they worsen and become complications. With their help, you can avoid needing more extensive and costly procedures down the line.
Why not make 2022 the year you improve your oral health? By making your New Year’s resolutions surround your dental care, you can keep a healthy smile all year long!
About the Practice
At Bell Road Dental Care, we believe patient comfort is just as important as the quality and consistency of our dental care. Our team strives to make every visit as comfortable, enjoyable, and satisfying as possible. For more ways to keep a healthy smile in 2022, visit our website or call (602) 404-3483.