It’s officially December, which means the end of the year is approaching quickly. 2022 will be here before you know it! If you’re like most people, you may have already started working on your list of New Year’s resolutions. Well, choosing to make your resolutions around your dental care can create a win-win situation for both your oral health and financial situation. To help you out, a dentist in St. Albans has compiled a list of ways you can keep a healthy smile all year long.
Use This Opportunity to Make Positive Change
Are there are any positive changes you want to make in your life? The new year is the perfect time to commit to them, especially if they involve your oral health! By improving your at-home dental care routine, staying away from harmful behaviors, and making better dietary choices, you can make a positive impact on your long-term dental health. If you incorporate these changes into your schedule, they’ll turn into habits before you know it. After some time, they’ll become permanent fixtures in your routine!
Power Up Your Oral Hygiene Habits
A good oral hygiene routine can profoundly affect your oral health. Taking proper care of your mouth will help your teeth shine brighter and make your gums less sensitive. You should brush your teeth twice a day for at least two minutes at a time using fluoride toothpaste. Don’t forget to floss thoroughly between your teeth once a day as well! Afterward, be sure to rinse with an antiseptic mouthwash to keep your mouth as clean as a whistle.
Make Healthier Dietary Choices
Believe it or not, your diet has a significant impact on your oral health. The foods you eat can provide nourishment to the bacteria in your mouth, potentially contributing to dental problems. Luckily, you can keep your smile safe by limiting your consumption of sugary or acidic foods, reducing snacking between meals, rinsing with water after eating, and sticking to a diet full of nutrient-rich foods (i.e., fruits, vegetables, dairy products, whole grains, lean proteins).
Address Any Dental Problems
There’s no better time than the present to address any dental problems you have. If you have an improper bite, a damaged tooth, or even a cavity, you should seek treatment from your dentist as soon as possible. They can recommend the appropriate treatment to get your smile back on the right track. With their help, you can avoid further problems and complications down the line.
Say No to Dry Mouth
Saliva plays a crucial role in maintaining the health of your teeth and gums. It provides the enamel with minerals, neutralizes the pH level (or acidity), and helps wash away food particles and debris. Because of that, a dry mouth can contribute to several oral health problems. You can promote saliva production by chewing sugar-free gum, drinking milk or other dairy products, avoiding excess alcohol consumption, and staying hydrated.
The new year is the perfect time to improve your oral health. By using the ideas above as the inspiration for your resolutions, you can ensure your smile remains happy and healthy all year long!
About the Practice
At St. Albans Dental, we’re committed to providing exceptional, high-quality, personalized dental services for patients of all ages. Our team uses the latest technologies and techniques to give you results you’re guaranteed to love. For more ways to keep your smile healthy in 2022, visit our website or call (802) 524-4844.