Many of us make New Year’s resolutions at this time of year, but how about resolving to look after your teeth? It’s the perfect time of year to think about your dental health, especially with the abundance of sweet treats available at this time of year. Here are a few tips to get you started.
Book Regular Dental Visits
We encourage everyone to come and see us at least twice a year, and it’s a great idea to get ahead by booking your visits well in advance so you can get your pick of appointment times. Routine dental examinations are a great way to pick up any potential problems, and having your teeth cleaned professionally is an excellent way to freshen your smile. Regular dental visits help protect your oral health and save you money in the longer term. If you have a niggling problem with a tooth or need a new filling, get it done sooner rather than later before the problem worsens.
Commit to a Good Oral Care Routine
Over the holidays, it is easy to get out of a regular routine of twice daily brushing and flossing daily, so commit to re-establishing your oral care habits for a healthy, beautiful smile and fresh breath. As a reminder, you should brush your teeth at least twice daily for two minutes. You need to spend this long to ensure you clean each tooth surface thoroughly. Daily flossing cleans those hard-to-reach areas in between your teeth. If you like to use mouthwash, make sure it is alcohol-free or contains other useful ingredients like fluoride or is antibacterial, and you can always ask us for advice on good brands to try.
Improve Your Brushing and Flossing Techniques
Almost everyone can benefit from reviewing their brushing and flossing techniques. It’s incredibly easy to get into a routine where you automatically brush your teeth and may inadvertently miss out some areas of your mouth, allowing plaque to build up. Don’t be afraid to ask us for help, as we can soon demonstrate how to brush and floss more effectively than before and provide useful tips on which tools to try.
Pay Attention to Your Diet
We are not talking about dieting but rather thinking about how your food choices impact your dental health. Snacking between meals is a very good example, especially if you have a bit of a sweet tooth, as it is far better to enjoy your sweet treats as part of a main meal. Make sure you have a balanced diet with all the nutrients needed for good oral health, including plenty of fruits and vegetables, so make the most of summer-fresh produce.
Drink More Water
Water is great for your dental health, so resolve to drink more water this coming year. Water helps wash away any loose food particles and some bacteria and ensures you can produce plenty of saliva. Saliva helps protect your dental health, maintaining a neutral pH more easily and decreasing the risk of cavities and gum disease.
