Improving your health and keeping more money in your bank account, that’s a pretty excellent win-win situation right there. There are many New Year’s resolutions that will help you in both respects, and the ones that involve improving your oral health certainly qualify. You can alter your daily oral hygiene regimen, and before long you’ve changed a problematic behavior without even thinking about it. Keep reading for suggestions from your dentist in Columbia on New Year’s resolutions for a healthy smile.
Resolution #1: Combat Dry Mouth
Your saliva is crucial to maintaining the health of your teeth and gums, as it provides your enamel with minerals, neutralizes acidity, and helps wash away food matter and debris. Fortunately, there are many ways to reduce dry mouth, such as chewing sugar-free gum or drinking milk to increase saliva production, drinking water regularly and especially before bed, and avoiding excessive alcohol consumption or using illegal drugs.
Resolution #2: Implement Helpful Oral Hygiene Habits
Some examples of stellar dental care to power up your smile include gently brushing twice each day with a soft-bristled toothbrush, holding your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to your gumline, using fluoride toothpaste, flossing, or utilizing an interdental brush once per day, and rinsing with mouthwash after brushing.
Resolution #3: Make Healthier Choices with Your Diet
Your diet can have a significant impact on your oral health. Steps to improve your diet can include limiting your consumption of sugary or acidic foods and beverages, reducing snacking, rinsing your mouth with water after having meals or sugary drinks, and eating lots of fruits and veggies.
Resolution #4: Quit Using Tobacco Products
Smoking and the use of other tobacco products invites oral health problems and stains your teeth. Nicotine is highly addictive but consulting a medical professional for insight on quitting can help you break free of the urge.
Resolution #5: Visit Your Dentist in Columbia Every Six Months
The best way to stop dental issues in their tracks is to detect them early or prevent them from happening in the first place. Regular visits to your dentist will help ensure that no dental issues go unnoticed or develop into something more serious.
Following through on New Year’s resolutions for a healthy smile is an excellent, money-saving choice. Allow yourself enough time for your new routine to morph into habits. For more helpful ideas, talk to your Columbia dentist during your next appointment!
About the Practice
Dr. Philip Batson earned his dental doctorate from the University of Missouri-Kansas City. He and his wife, Dr. Elizabeth Abe, value continuing a family tradition of providing quality oral healthcare for the citizens of Central Missouri which began 40 years ago with his father. Dr. Batson is a member of the American Dental Association. They love the idea of you setting New Year’s resolutions to improve your oral health. Our dentists can help with a dental cleaning and exam, which you can schedule on our website or by calling (573) 875-7071.