10 New Year's Resolutions for Good Oral Health

Achieving a good oral health care routine takes a lifetime of building good habits. Even though you may have lovely teeth, you must cultivate good habits. The new year is the perfect time to resolve to start building on these. What are some of these changes you may have to make? Here are 10 New Year resolutions to start you on your journey to good oral health.

• Quit Drinking and Smoking

These two habits can lead to dry mouth. Dry mouth or xerostomia can contribute to dental problems as it causes saliva to stop flowing. Saliva plays a vital function in oral health. It helps neutralize the pH level of your mouth. When bacteria in your mouth feed on debris, they produce acid that eats away at your enamel and causes cavities.

When you resolve to quit these habits, you help your body produce enough good saliva. Tobacco from smoking also stains your teeth; stopping it will prevent this.

• Chew Sugar-free Gum

Chewing sugar-free gum for about 20 minutes after meals will help remove debris between the teeth. The chewing also helps produce saliva, reducing the pH levels in your mouth. It keeps your mouth healthy throughout the day.

• Visit the Dentist at Least Twice

The recommendation is to visit your dentist at least twice a year. That is the least number of times that will set you on your way to good oral health. It stops dental issues in their tracks as the dentist deals with them. Budget and save money even as you purpose to visit your dentist. It will help you deal with unforeseen issues.

• Eating a Balanced Diet

Eating healthy is crucial to keeping your beautiful smile. It reduces the amount of food that remains in your mouth. Fruits and vegetables have high fiber. As such, they do not leave as much debris as processed foods. A balanced diet with more fruit and vegetables also provides more nutrients to keep your teeth strong. Milk and dairy products also help your mouth produce more saliva.

• Cut Down on Sugar

Sugar increases the accumulation of plaque. It includes candy, cookies, and cakes. These treats will not only add to your waistline but also cavities.

• Proper Brushing Habits

Before brushing, set your timer for two minutes. Brush your teeth at a 45-degree angle, making sure to hit as many sides of your teeth as possible.

• Use a Proper Toothbrush

Brush using a soft bristle toothbrush that you should replace every three to four months. Medium to hard bristle toothbrushes may harm your teeth. This is more so if you are the kind of person who applies pressure when brushing teeth.

• Floss Daily

Flossing is a healthy way to keep your teeth from developing cavities. It helps you reach between your teeth where your toothbrush cannot. Do it at night before going to bed. Be patient as you do it to ensure you get all the debris between your teeth.

• Drink Water

Your body needs water for many of its vital functions. Water also helps wash away debris from your mouth. Water with fluoride helps strengthen your teeth.

• Rinsing Your Mouth

You can gurgle water after meals to rinse out debris from your mouth, but also remember to drink some. After brushing your teeth, you can also use mouthwash to rinse. If you do not have any, warm water with salt will help.

For more information on good oral health, visit Today’s Family Dental at our offices in Tampa and Lutz, Florida. You can call (813) 212-8700 to schedule an appointment today.