It’s the beginning of another year and you’ve likely already heard the saying “New year, new me!” a million times and might have even said it yourself. Setting goals for yourself are a great way to start a new year and here are some dental related ideas for you to add into your new routines which will have either a direct affect on, or rippling effect into, your overall health and happiness.
Taking steps to improve dental health is a critical part of overall health and fitness.
The new year is the perfect time to design resolutions for establishing healthy habits. Whether it’s improving toothbrushing habits or completing dental treatment for yourself or your loved ones, wellness resolutions are always in season and the benefits of setting goals can be rewarding and motivating. Remember to make resolutions attainable by taking baby steps to achieve them.
Avoid Gum Disease
Daily brushing and flossing will help prevent gum disease. Improving daily oral care routines is a simple way to improve your health. For successful plaque removal, brush at least twice a day for 2 minutes using a good toothbrush and a fluoridated toothpaste. Position the bristles at a 45-degree angle toward the gumline and move the toothbrush across the teeth in a circular motion. Floss at least once per day to remove unwanted goodies that may have accumulated throughout the day. Replace your toothbrush every 3 months as recommended by the Canadian Dental Association.
Dental Cleaning
Get rid of unsightly plaque that builds up around lower front teeth. If it has been more than 6 months since your last dental cleaning, you are overdue. The icky sticky goo can cause bad breath and lead to gum disease. Schedule an appointment with your dentist today.
Quit Tobacco and Recreational Cannabis Use
Stop tobacco, smokeless tobacco and recreational cannabis use to improve overall mouth health. Tobacco and cannabis contain many of the same carcinogens and can lead to periodontal complications, xerostomia (dry mouth), leukoplakia and increased risk of oral cancer. If you want to quit, consider free online programs, progress apps, and support from groups to assist with saying no.
Restore Teeth
The new year is the perfect time to complete recommended dental work. Crowns, implants, and fillings help preserve tooth structure and maintain proper tooth alignment.
Preserve Teeth
Teeth grinding can be caused by stress, anxiety, sleep disorders, abnormal bite, or teeth that are missing or out of alignment. Symptoms include dull headaches, jaw soreness, painful teeth, or fractured tooth surfaces. If you are concerned about teeth grinding, ask us about solutions.
Improve Your Appearance
Start the year off bright! There are several ways to improve your appearance including teeth whitening and straightening. Tobacco, wine, coffee, and tea can turn your pearly whites 50 shades of gray so call us to schedule a relaxing in-office laser teeth lightening procedure or ask us about take home teeth whitening trays and dental bleach so you can do it yourself as needed. For full smile makeovers we can go over all available options and to straighten your teeth, we offer both traditional braces and clear options (Invisalign) to help you get the smile you’ve always wanted.
(Adapted from Biolase)