Coming up with the perfect New Year’s resolution can be kind of daunting. People often overestimate how much they can complete in one year and end up feeling discouraged. Finding a balance between something that challenges you and something you can reasonably do over the next 365 days can be tricky. That’s why making New Year’s resolutions for your smile is such a good idea. Continue reading to learn about four resolutions that will aid you in achieving a healthy, happy smile by the end of next year.
#1: Visit the Dentist
Some people only visit the dentist when something is wrong, but this isn’t the right way to go about things. Waiting until an oral health issue arises will only raise your risk of serious smile issues. One of the reasons why visiting the dentist every six months is so crucial is because this lowers your risk of cavities, gum disease, and other oral health problems. Your dentist will also be able to treat existing issues before they get out of hand. During these visits, your teeth will also be thoroughly cleaned so you can leave your appointment with a fresh smile.
#2: Improve Your Oral Hygiene Routine
If you don’t brush your teeth once in the morning and once at night for two minutes, now is the time to start. Brushing your teeth is key to keeping your oral health in check. Be sure to use a toothbrush with soft bristles so you don’t damage your enamel. Additionally, use toothpaste that’s non-abrasive and contains fluoride to strengthen your teeth against decay.
You also need to floss every night before you go to bed. This will remove food that’s gotten stuck between your teeth throughout the day as well as 40% of the plaque on your pearly whites. You should also consider using mouthwash to get rid of bacteria in the places you can’t reach while brushing and flossing.
#3: Cut Out Bad Habits
Using tobacco products is one of the worst things that you can do for your body. Along with raising your risk of several overall health conditions, it also increases your likelihood of developing oral cancer, cavities, and gum disease. Drinking alcohol excessively can also damage your smile, such as making you more likely to develop dry mouth. If you need help cutting these things out of your life, speak with a mental health professional, your doctor, or your dentist.
#4: Eat A Tooth-Approved Diet
Cut back on sweet, starchy, acidic, and carb-heavy foods. Instead, eat more foods that are good for your oral health, such as:
- Fresh, crisp fruits and veggies like apples, pears, carrots, and celery
- Low-fat or fat-free dairy, like cheese, milk, and yogurt
- Fish, like salmon, tuna, sardines, and mackerel
- Leafy greens, like lettuce, spinach, and kale
- Lean meats, like chicken and turkey
- Nuts like almonds and cashews
This New Year, plan to take better care of your smile than you have in the past. This will allow you to fulfill your New Year’s resolutions and end next year with a bang!
About the Practice
Natick is in good hands with Dr. Christina Papageorgiou and Dr. Paola Buckley. They lead the team at Papageorgiou Dental Associates and their love of their craft is apparent in the quality care they offer their patients. They can teach you the proper techniques to keep your smile in good condition so your New Year’s resolutions to care for your beam are easier to achieve. Call Papageorgiou Dental Associates at (508) 545-1126 or visit their website for more information on the services they offer or to set up an appointment.