It’s a new year, and you have the opportunity to start fresh in a multitude of ways. If you’re like many others, you probably have a list of New Year’s resolutions and goals that you would like to accomplish this year. Have you considered adding better oral health to that list? Studies have shown that people who have smiles they’re proud of not only have more fulfilling relationships and do better in their careers, but they also enjoy a more enhanced quality of life. Keep reading to learn what your Flower Mound dentist has to say about how you can effectively prioritize your smile this year.
Tips To Help You Prioritize Your Smile
Regardless of what your oral health regiment looked like in 2020, it’s not too late to make a plan to show your smile a little extra love this year. Here are a few tips to help get you started:
Make A Plan to Prioritize Oral Hygiene
Like most people, you can probably say that you brush your teeth at least once a day, but how often do you floss? Nearly 30% of people say that they only floss when they feel something is stuck in their teeth, or just not at all! If you can’t remember the last time you did, you’re clearly not alone. Flossing plays a very important role in keeping your teeth and gums safe from infection and decay by removing plaque and bacteria from hard-to-reach places that your toothbrush can’t quite get to.
Eat More Fruits and Vegetables
There’s a reason why your caretakers and doctors urged you to finish your vegetables at mealtimes. They contain vitamins and minerals that are crucial to your overall oral health and the strength of your teeth and jawbone. Plus, many vegetables contain high amounts of fiber that actually helps to clean your teeth from plaque while you eat them.
Cut Back on Your Sugar Intake
Eating less sugar is a common resolution that many people make at the start of a new year for multiple reasons. In addition to benefiting the waistline, it also minimizes the risk of cavities. Whenever you do indulge in something with high sugar content, make sure to have some water on hand so that you can rinse your mouth out well afterward.
See Your Dentist Regularly
Seeing your dentist regularly for preventive care is probably one of the best gifts you can give your smile this year. Each time you see them, they check your mouth and throat for oral cancer, as well as your gums for infection. The sooner that potential issues are identified, the easier they are to get under control. This will ultimately save you time and money on costly treatments down the road.
One of the first things someone notices when they meet you is your smile, so why not prioritize it this year? Talk to your dentist about the different ways you can enhance your oral health and keep your pearly whites shining brightly.
About the Author
Dr. Rodger Song is passionate about keeping his patients’ smiles healthy. He understands that the best way he can help them take great care of their teeth and gums is to educate them on the importance of oral hygiene. He has completed over 500 hours of continuing education, and he uses his skills and knowledge to provide the highest quality of care. Are you ready to put your smile at the top of your list of New Year’s resolutions? Request an appointment online or call (972) 906-9797.