It’s hard to believe, but it’s true – New Year’s is just around the corner. If you’re trying to decide what resolutions you’ll make for the upcoming 12 months, why not make them not only attainable, but healthy as well! For many people, it’s easy to skip brushing your teeth or put off going to the dentist. Unfortunately, those decisions can lead to some serious dental health issues, like tooth decay, gum disease and even tooth loss! So avoid those problems altogether by making these New Year resolutions for better oral health. Not only are they attainable; the end result will be healthier teeth and gums!
- Resolve to stay on track with your oral hygiene routine at home. That includes brushing at least twice a day and flossing at least once a day. If you really want to amp up your routine, consider using a water flosser at least once a day and rinsing with anti-bacterial mouthwash before going to bed.
- Resolve to drink more water every day. Staying hydrated is not only good for your overall health; it’s good for your oral health as well. Water flushes leftover food particles out of your mouth, and it keeps your gums hydrated.
- Resolve to make your dental appointments ahead of time – and to actually show up for those appointments! Call your dentist in early January to make your appointments for professional cleanings and oral exams for the coming year. Mark those dates on your calendar and resolve to make it to each appointment. Remember that having your teeth professionally cleaned and getting an oral exam from your dentist are absolutely essential elements of good oral health.
- Resolve to have needed dental work done in the upcoming year. If you’ve been putting off have dental work done – whether it’s having a cavity filled, getting a new crown, or whatever it may be – promise yourself to actually have that work done in the upcoming year. Dental issues will only get worse over time, so the longer you wait, the more extensive the procedure will be and, most likely, the more expensive it will be as well.
- Resolve to quit using tobacco products. Whether you smoke tobacco or chew it, your oral health and your overall health are suffering when you choose to use tobacco. If you have a hard time quitting, there are plenty of over-the-counter products, apps, and support groups to help out.
Make the upcoming year the healthiest one yet with these New Year resolutions for better oral health!
