5 New Year’s Resolutions for a Healthier Smile

The start of the new year is the perfect time to take steps to better yourself! Whether you are planning to spend an extra day at the gym each week or you are trying to incorporate an act of kindness into every day, you’re in for an exciting year. Why not add in a few ways that you can work towards a healthy smile? Continue reading for some New Year’s resolutions that can help you boost your oral health throughout 2021.

Get on Track with Regular Checkups

Approximately one third of Americans do not see the dentist as often as they would like. For most patients, it is recommended to come into the dental office every six months for a regular cleaning and checkup. If you aren’t already doing so, this is a great time to get back on track. Call your dental office and schedule an appointment. Don’t forget to set up your next visit before you leave the office.

Floss Every Day

When you go in for your professional cleanings, does your dentist tell you that you haven’t been flossing enough? Brushing is an important step when it comes to removing food debris and plaque from your mouth, but it isn’t enough on its own. There are some areas where the bristles of your toothbrush cannot reach. Flossing is a necessary step in order to clean between the teeth and beneath the gumline.

Cut Back on Sugar

We all love a sugary sweet every now and again, but if you are having too many throughout the day, you could be looking at some oral health issues in the future. Buy fewer sweets when you go to the grocery store. Instead find something else that will satisfy your cravings. If you like to drink cola, maybe try a sparking water instead. If you are a fan of hard candies, sugar-free gum is a great alternative.

Stop Smoking

You know that smoking tobacco products is bad for you, but did you know that it is also bad for your oral health? Not only does it double your risk for periodontal disease, but it is also linked to a variety of other health problems, like oral cancer. It is difficult to give up this habit, so you should definitely have a replacement activity for when the craving kicks in. Talk to your doctor, friends, and family about the best ways that you can quit for good.

Stick to Tooth-Friendly Snacks

The good news is that not all of your favorite foods are terrible for your teeth. Some are actually quite beneficial. Try to add more of them into your diet. Dairy products like milk, yogurt, and cheese are excellent sources of calcium. Apples, pears, carrots, celery, cranberries, and nuts are also great options.

To maintain excellent oral health, it is necessary to take steps every day to keep your smile in good shape. Give some of these New Year’s resolutions are try. Your teeth will be thanking you.

About the Author

Dr. Matt VanderMolen is an experienced dentist who has been a trusted name in the dental community for over 30 years! He has received the Academy of General Dentistry’s prestigious Fellowship Award and is committed to completing over 100 hours of continuing education each year. Currently, he’s a member of numerous professional organizations including the American Dental Association and the Chicago Dental Society. For more ways to keep your smile healthy or to schedule an appointment at his office in Springfield, visit his website or call (217) 546-3333.