New Year's Resolutions For Your Smile

By Joey and Luke

No matter how you fared with your resolutions for 2020, that’s okay. It has been a tough time. To have remained healthy and safe is more than enough reason to congratulate yourself.

But for your next year's goals, don’t forget good oral health. Consider including these New Year resolutions for your teeth.

1. Drink more water. Drink at least eight glasses of water daily. Water is the best hydration option for the teeth and body. It stimulates the flow of saliva, helps replenish lost minerals on the tooth enamel, and breaks down and flushes food debris down. Water leaves no residue, and fluoridated water, on the other hand, helps strengthen the teeth. You don’t have to take out coffee and tea from your system completely, but try to make plain water your go-to beverage, whether at home or when you’re out and about.
2. Quit smoking. This habit is tough to beat, but you can manage with help from the right people. Expect cravings to kick in, so think about activities you can focus on instead. Check out free online resources and apps so you can monitor your achievements and health improvements. As early as now, seek support from your loved ones and health care providers. If you feel you need professional advice, you can also consult with your dentist.
3. Get your teeth fixed. Think about the reasons why you’ve been delaying getting dental treatments that you need. Your dental team may be able to help address those concerns. For instance, if you’ve been missing appointments due to dental fear or anxiety, you can discuss possible options with your dentist and hygienist. Don’t wait for a terrible toothache to come by to see your dentist. Prevention is more convenient and cheaper than cure.
4. Commit to flossing. Flossing may not be your favorite activity, but brushing alone won’t give your mouth all the cleaning it needs. Did you know that flossing helps lower your risk for gum disease? Flossing can get through the tight spaces between teeth and along the gumline, and remove debris. Waiting until your next dental cleaning to clean these areas can lead to plaque and tartar buildup and gum issues. If you’re concerned about physical limitations, look into flossing devices for comfort.
5. Reduce sugar intake. If you must indulge in sweets, do it during mealtimes. According to a study, the amount of tooth decay is related to a person’s sugar intake. Reduce the number of sweet treats when you’re doing groceries, preparing meals, or ordering food. Also, keep sweets away after every meal to avoid snacking throughout the day. Should cravings kick in, consider having sugar-free options.
6. Grab nutritious snacks. Incorporate healthier snacks into your diet as you try to cut back on sugar. Dairy products, fruits, and vegetables are packed with vitamins that are good for your oral and general health. Some, such as apples and carrots, help get rid of debris in the teeth and act as natural cleaners. Introduce them to children at home, too. Serve them in fun shapes and presentations to make them more enticing.
7. Protect teeth. If you’re active in sports, consider investing in custom oral appliances to protect the teeth. A custom sports guard works differently than a store-bought device. It's customized, feels comfortable, and doesn’t move around when worn. You don’t need to bite down on it to keep it in place. And most importantly, it serves its purpose well, which is to protect your teeth against injuries and damage.

Include your smile in your New Year’s Resolution. Healthy, attractive, and warm smiles can improve your everyday life. The better you care for your mouth, the less you’ll have to spend on it in the long run. Share your oral health goals with your loved ones to solicit support that you need.