The new year always provides a great opportunity to reflect on what you did well and how you could improve. If you’re still pondering your new year’s resolutions in River Ridge, you may want to include a few that focus on your long-term oral health! Not only can you do your smile a favor by keeping it happy and healthy, but you could save money on future dental treatments, particularly restorative ones you won’t need if you stay proactive about your preventive health. Here are four ways to get started as recommended by a dentist!
Commit to Flossing Daily
Brushing is an important part of removing plaque from your teeth and gums, but flossing ensures your at-home oral care is complete. After all, plaque can easily collect in between teeth, leading to an increased risk of tooth decay. By flossing just once a day, you can keep your smile free of harmful plaque-producing bacteria and save on restorative dental treatments like dental fillings. For easier flossing, consider choosing a brand that uses monofilament floss (which is thinner and easier to get in between teeth.)
Rethink Your Sugar Consumption
It’s been proven that consuming more sugar puts your smile at higher risk of developing cavities. If you’re consuming foods or beverages that contain high amounts of sugar, such as soda, sports drinks, or sweet treats, you’re actively bathing your enamel in sugar and making it easier for oral bacteria to expel plaque acids that attack teeth. Swap it out for water instead, which not only loosens food debris but also keeps saliva production high. Saliva is a key component of cleansing the mouth of harmful oral bacteria throughout the day.
End Your Tobacco Habit for Good
Tobacco has proven to be one of the most influential contributors to poor oral health. While it’s known for yellowing tooth enamel and causing bad breath, it’s also one of the leading causes of gum disease. When severe enough, gum disease can lead to tooth loss. Kicking the habit now, either with the help of a general practitioner or a support group dedicated to quitting all tobacco, will ensure a healthy smile for many years to come.
Schedule Your Dental Checkups Early
Getting your dental exams and cleanings out of the way now is a great way to kill multiple birds with one stone. For example, early annual checkups can:
- Give you a chance to catch underlying dental issues
- Ensure you make the most out of available dental insurance benefits
- Keep your smile clean and free of plaque and tartar
- Provide you with peace of mind knowing your at-home care is working
In 2021, make long-term oral health a resolution that lasts for decades. To get started on achieving your healthy smile in River Ridge, give a dentist a call today!
About deJong & Plaisance Family Dentistry
Dr. Plaisance Jr. and Dr. deJong are dedicated to helping you achieve your oral health goals in the new year. Whether you want to be cavity-free in 2021, complete restorative treatments you already know you need, or get the smile makeover of your dreams, they look forward to being by your side every step of the way. To schedule an appointment, you can contact them through their website.
