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New Year’s Resolutions! 12 Helpful Dental Health Tips

Propósitos Para Año Nuevo! 12 Consejos De Salud Dental

Dr. Andreas

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Written by

Q.F. Nayibe Cubillos Morales

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Medically Reviewed by

Dr. Gustavo Assatourians D.D.S

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New Year’s Resolutions! Taking Care of My Dental Health

Are you thinking about your New Year’s resolutions? Oral health is a fundamental one that is often overlooked. The beginning of a new year is the perfect time to set new goals. If you’re looking for a purpose that benefits your overall health, consider making oral health care a priority in the coming year. Maintaining a healthy mouth not only contributes to a beautiful new smile but also has a positive impact on your overall well-being.

In this article, we will provide you with 10 essential tips to take care of your oral health in the new year. Here we present a combination of expert tips to maintain a healthy mouth and a radiant smile.

 

1. Prioritize Brushing and Flossing

dental-flossing

Proper brushing is essential to maintaining a healthy mouth. Make sure you brush your teeth for at least two minutes, twice a day after meals. And, don’t forget to clean the spaces between your teeth using dental floss or an interdental pick. This will help prevent plaque buildup and cavity formation.

Not only is brushing itself important but also using the proper technique and cleaning between the teeth. Changing your brush every three months and choosing the right one is equally important.

 

2. Adopt Healthy Eating Habits

healthy-foods

Diet plays a crucial role in dental health. Eat foods rich in calcium, such as low-fat dairy products, yogurt, and cheese to strengthen your teeth and bones. Avoid sugary foods and citrus fruits, as they can damage tooth enamel and increase the risk of cavities. Opt for a balanced diet that benefits both your general and oral health.

 

3. Reduce Alcohol and Tobacco Consumption

tobacco-and-alcohol

Limiting or quitting alcohol and tobacco is beneficial for optimal dental health. Both can cause tooth stains, cavities, gum disease, and other oral health problems. Alcohol can contribute to tooth decay and accelerate its progression. Consider joining the “Dry January” challenge and look for support online or through apps to help you stay committed.

 

4. Stay Hydrated and Exercise Regularly

woman-drinking-water-after-her-exercise

Hydration is key to maintaining a healthy mouth and avoiding dryness. Regular exercise not only improves overall health but also benefits oral health. Studies have shown that regular physical activity can improve gum health and reduce the risk of periodontal disease. Additionally, exercise helps you make healthier dietary choices, which has a positive impact on oral health.

 

5. Regular Visits to the Dentist

regular-visit-to-dentist

Don’t underestimate the importance of regular dental visits. Schedule at least two check-ups a year. Regular checkups help detect dental problems in their early stages, making them easier to treat while preventing costly complications.

 

6. Toothbrush Change

change-of-toothbrush

To ensure the effectiveness of your brushing, change your toothbrush every three months. Worn brushes accumulate bacteria and dirt, reducing their effectiveness. A new brush ensures optimal cleaning and prevents damage to your gums and teeth.

 

7. Use Quality Products

mouthwash

Invest in good quality dental products recommended by experts. This includes toothbrushes, dental floss, mouthwashes, and other oral hygiene products.

 

8. Manage Stress

man-having-stress

Stress can negatively affect your dental health, causing problems such as bruxism (teeth grinding) and gum disease. Find effective ways to manage stress, such as meditation or exercise, to protect your oral health. Learning to manage stress is an important step toward better oral health.

 

9. Take Care of Your Children’s Dental Health

mother-brushing-her-son's-teeth

Establishing good oral health habits in children is essential. Healthy habits are formed at home, where role models teach beneficial practices. If you read, your children will learn to read; if you show respect to others, they will innately adopt it; and if you take care of your dental health, they will follow your example throughout their lives. By keeping your mouth in good condition, you are contributing to the oral well-being of your loved ones. Parents should be role models in this regard.

 

10. Trust the Professionals

new years resolutions with dentist and patient

Right now, you are online reading an article about dental health. However, in the vast world of the Internet,  numerous sites and articles provide incorrect information about diseases, and pathologies or treatments, sometimes in a dangerous way. If you have any questions or need a reliable diagnosis, you can count on us. We will always be available in our contact section to provide you with assistance. For reliable information and treatments, it is always best to consult with dental professionals.

 

11. Your image is important

teeth--with-braces

You probably think that having an aesthetically pleasing smile is something you can leave for later, but we are here to tell you that a wide variety of treatments are available to correct the alignment of your teeth or improve any that are damaged. If you ever consider these treatments, do so sooner rather than later, as it will make the entire process easier.

 

12. Smile with Confidence

new year's resolutions

A healthy smile not only improves your appearance but also your overall well-being. Smiling several times a day can have positive effects on your health and mood.

 

Conclusion

Taking care of your oral health is a valuable New Year’s resolution. Here are numerous tips and practices that can help you maintain a healthy and beautiful mouth. From brushing properly and using quality dental hygiene products to adopting a balanced diet and avoiding tobacco and alcohol, these sound recommendations can make a big difference in your oral health. Additionally, it is essential to schedule regular visits to the dentist to prevent future problems and receive professional guidance.

Good oral care habits are instilled at home and can influence future generations, promoting the importance of dental health in the family. Reliable information and seeking professional help are crucial in a world where misinformation can be harmful.

Ultimately, maintaining a healthy smile not only contributes to physical well-being but is also a powerful tool for activating happiness in your daily life. So, start the year with a smile from side to side, and take care of your oral health!

Frequently Asked Questions

First, be sure to brush your teeth thoroughly twice a day and floss daily to remove dental plaque between your teeth. Second, it is essential to schedule at least one annual visit to the dentist, even if you do not have natural teeth and use dentures. Finally, avoid the use of tobacco products altogether;  if you currently smoke, it is important to stop a habit that is harmful to your oral and general health.

Brush your teeth twice a day using a fluoride toothpaste. Additionally, clean between your teeth daily, using dental floss or interdental brushes. Maintain a healthy diet and control your intake of added sugars.

Some of these challenges include financial constraints, limited dental insurance coverage, transportation difficulties, a language barrier, and a lack of understanding of the importance of oral health.

The risk includes the possibility of developing heart disease and stroke. Bacteria can clog arteries and increase the chance of having a serious heart attack. Additionally, it can block the blood vessel that supplies blood to the brain, increasing the risk of having a stroke.

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References

1. CDC: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (April, 2023). Oral Health Tips.Division of Oral Health, National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion. https://www.cdc.gov/oralhealth/basics/adult-oral-health/tips.html

2. NHS. (Jan, 2022). Take care of your teeth and gums.https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/healthy-teeth-and-gums/take-care-of-your-teeth-and-gums/

3. Cleveland Clinic. (April, 2022). Oral Hygiene. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/16914-oral-hygiene

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