Many people make new year’s goals toward improving their health and appearance. While these resolutions often center around losing weight or quitting a bad habit, you shouldn’t forget about your teeth.
Having a healthy smile has a range of benefits including better breath, stronger gums, and increased confidence. And some health issues can be traced back to poor oral hygiene, such as cardiovascular disease, infections, and pregnancy complications. Below are five dental goals for the new year for you to consider as part of your resolutions.
Dental Goals for 2019
Floss
Your dentist nags you about it on every visit, and for good reason. A recent study revealed that fewer than one out of three Americans floss on a daily basis. Flossing helps to remove harmful bacteria and other germs that a toothbrush can’t reach and fights against tartar buildup, gum disease, and bad breath. It only takes a couple of minutes to do it, and it can keep your dentist off your back.
Eat tooth-friendly foods
Junk food can be just as harmful to your teeth as it is to your waistline. The calcium found in dairy products strengthens your teeth’s enamel while green vegetables produce more saliva for a greater cleansing effect on your teeth.
Drink more water
Most tap water resources and bottled water brands contain fluoride, which washes away acid and sugar and protects your teeth from erosion. Soda, sports drinks, and juice often contain sugary and acidic ingredients that might taste good but don’t do your teeth any favors.
Learn to brush properly
It’s great that you brush your teeth twice a day, but the truth is, most of us don’t brush properly. Spend two minutes using short and gentle strokes while paying close attention to your gumlines and using a soft-bristled brush that gets replaced every three months. Most people brush too hard, not close enough to the gumlines, and for too short amount of time.
Schedule a checkup
More than one-third of U.S. adults don’t visit a dentist at least once a year. And you really should be going twice per year. The dentist uses certain tools and techniques to get your teeth clean in a way you can’t replicate at home. A checkup can also catch problem areas while still in the early stages so that you may act accordingly.
Start the New Year at Smith Family Dentistry
Your dental goals for the new year start at Smith Family Dentistry. Schedule your dentist appointment with Dr. Smith, the preferred family dentist in Wilmington, North Carolina. You’re encouraged to bring in the whole family for a dental check-up so that everyone can start the new year off with a smile.