It’s the start of a brand-new year! If you’re like most people, you’re probably working on your list of New Year’s resolutions. Are you brainstorming ways to increase your health and wealth in 2022? Well, here’s a secret – choosing to make your resolutions about your oral health can create a win-win situation for your mouth and bank account! Read on for some ideas that’ll help you keep a healthy smile all year long.
Improve Your Oral Hygiene Habits
A solid at-home dental care routine is vital for a healthy smile. By taking proper care of your teeth and gums, you can ensure they look and feel their very best. Believe it or not, practicing good oral hygiene is easier than you might think! All you have to do is make a few simple choices to keep your dental health in excellent condition. Brushing twice a day for two minutes each time, flossing daily, and rinsing regularly with an ADA-approved mouthwash are just a few essential practices that should be a part of your everyday routine.
Make Better Dietary Choices
Did you know that diet has a significant impact on oral health? Since the foods you eat can contribute to dental problems like cavities, decay, and gum disease, you need to be careful about your choices. Luckily, there are many easy steps you can take to follow a healthier diet. That includes limiting your intake of sugary and acidic foods, reducing snacking between meals, rinsing with water after eating, and eating plenty of nutrient-rich foods (i.e., fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, dairy products).
Avoid Dry Mouth
Saliva plays a crucial role in maintaining the health of your teeth, gums, and mouth. Not only does it provide your enamel with much-needed minerals, but it helps neutralize pH levels (acidity) and wash away food particles. As a result, having a dry mouth can contribute to multiple oral health problems. You can keep your saliva flowing by chewing sugar-free gum, consuming milk or other dairy products, limiting your alcohol consumption, and drinking plenty of water.
Kick Bad Habits to the Curb
Everyone knows that smoking and using tobacco are detrimental to your health. However, those poor habits are just as harmful to your smile. Tobacco can stain your teeth and increase your risk of several dental problems, including gum disease. Why not make 2022 the year you finally quit? Although nicotine is highly addictive, a medical or dental professional is qualified to make the feat as easy as can be. They’ll provide you with the resources, support, and guidance you need to quit these bad habits for good.
This year, you should work on improving your oral health. By using the ideas above for your New Year’s resolutions, you can ensure your smile stays happy and healthy in the months to come!
About the Author
Dr. Nelson Howard is passionate about helping patients achieve and maintain their very best smiles. After earning his dental doctorate at the UCLA School of Dentistry, he completed a General Practice Residency in West Los Angeles at the V.A. Medical Center. Dr. Howard and his team enjoy educating patients to help them make confident and informed decisions for their oral health. For more ways to keep a healthy smile in 2022, visit his website or contact his office.