Easy and Effective Ways to Improve Your Oral Health in 2020

Now that 2020 is almost over, many people are thinking about what resolutions they should make for the new year. Every year a common new year’s resolution that many people make is to be healthier. This usually means that they resolve to eat better and exercise more. While these are certainly wonderful resolutions, they are not the only way to improve your health. In fact, caring for your oral health is a great way to improve your overall health. As such, here are some resolutions to make for your oral health: 

 

Brush & Floss Everyday

Although this sounds like a simple resolution, there are times when we all skip a brushing or flossing session due to running late, being tired, or forgetting. Oftentimes, people have an easier time keeping up with a brushing routine, but struggle with flossing. In fact, a recent study found that only one-third of Americans floss daily. If you are already part of this group, then good job! If not, then this would be the perfect resolution to make. 

 

Switch Your Toothbrush Every 3 Months

Did you know that you are supposed to get a new toothbrush every 3 months? This is because toothbrushes wear out like anything else and are not as effective. Signs your toothbrush is worn include frayed or bent bristles and faded coloring. To keep this resolution, start the year out by buying four toothbrushes so that you can easily switch them out as the year goes on. 

 

Eat an Apple a Day

Not only does an apple a day keep the doctor away, but it also helps your oral health. However, it’s not only apples that are good for your teeth, but any crunchy, juicy fruit or vegetable. Generally speaking, vegetables are slightly better for your teeth than fruits since they have less natural sugar. Increasing the amount of vegetables you eat on a daily basis is also a way to improve your diet and lose weight. 

 

Get That Cosmetic Treatment

Have you been wanting to fix something about your smile? Thanks to a variety of cosmetic dental treatments, it is easier than ever to have the smile of your dreams for a price you can afford. Cosmetic dental treatments can improve the color, shape, size, alignment, and spacing of your teeth. Certain treatments can also fix damaged teeth, replace missing teeth, and contour your gums. 

 

Limit Sugar and Acids

In addition to eating more fruits and vegetables, you can also improve your oral health by decreasing the amount of sugar you consume. Not only does this mean cutting back on sweets, but it also means eating more refined carbohydrates and less starches. Another way to improve your oral health is to decrease the amount of acidic foods and beverages you consume, such as citric fruits and sodas. Both excess sugar and acidic foods and beverages can increase your risk of developing tooth decay and gum disease. 

 

Drink Water After Every Meal

Drinking water has a range of benefits for your oral and overall health. For your oral health, drinking plenty of water helps to keep your mouth clean and stimulate the production of saliva. Saliva is an important part of your mouth’s natural defense system because it flushes food particles out of the mouth and neutralizes harmful acids to protect your teeth. Drinking water after every meal keeps your mouth cleaner and reduces the risk of tooth decay. 

 

Visit Your Dentist

Finally, you can make a resolution to visit your dentist at least twice in 2021 for a dental exam and cleaning. These exams allow your dentist to monitor your oral health and detect potential problems before they progress. Dental cleanings are also an essential part of maintaining your oral health since they remove plaque and tartar from places you may have missed during your daily brushings and flossing. Call our office today to keep this resolution by scheduling your 2021 dental appointments!