Oral Health Resolutions for the New Year
We’re all making New Year’s resolutions, but many of us are unlikely to follow through. It can be tricky to turn over a new leaf in the New Year but finding a way to stick with it is crucial for the new leaf to help your health. If you want to take better care of your teeth and gums this year, Dr. Dave Moghadam, a family dentist in Easton, PA, recommends these oral health resolutions for the New Year.
Schedule a Consultation with Dr. Moghadam
If it’s been a while since you saw your Easton, PA dentist, you’re not alone. Around one-third of people in the U.S. don’t see their dentist every year, according to the American Dental Association (ADA). However, booking this appointment is one of the most important things you can do to look after your teeth. Even if your teeth look and feel healthy, set a calendar reminder for January 1st so that you can call College Hill Dental Group and schedule your appointment. We’ve also made scheduling appointments easy with our online scheduler!
To make the routine of visits simpler, book the next one before you leave their office. Most dentists send a reminder card a week before your appointment or call a day before your appointment; check it out.
Commit to Flossing
Brushing your teeth twice a day is not enough to prevent the plaque from forming on your teeth or to fully remove food from your mouth. You will need to floss to take the best care of your teeth. If you don’t have the habit of flossing, the new year is a perfect time to start.
Dr. Moghadam says that one way to make it easier to remember is to place a floss container right next to your toothpaste or toothbrush. You can even store floss picks in your car, purse, or backpack in case you need them.
Avoid Too Much Sugar
You’d be surprised to see how much sugar Americans consume a day. Cutting back on sugar will dramatically reduce the risk of tooth decay. The most convenient way to minimize sugar is to reduce the number of sugary treats you purchase. Easy swaps will help you cut back as well. Dr. Hoang, a cosmetic dentist in Bethlehem, GA, recommends that you drink sugar-free seltzer water instead of soda or chew a slice of sugar-free gum when you’re looking for something sweet.
Quit Smoking
Smoking doubles the risk of gum disease, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Smoking is also linked to several health issues. If you want to make 2021 your year to improve your overall health, then give up smoking. Smoking or chewing tobacco is a horrible habit to have, especially for your oral health.
Eat Healthier
When you eliminate sugar, consider adding more orally balanced foods to your diet to solidify your diet’s value to your teeth. Dairy items, which are rich in calcium, are perfect for your teeth, as are fibrous foods that call up saliva and brush away plaque.
Making your New Year’s goals as simple as possible will help you keep them. Take one day at a time, and don’t give up! Our team at College Hill Dental Group is here to support you. We always put our patients’ needs first. So, if you have any questions or concerns about your oral health goals, contact our dental office in Easton, PA!
