With a new year comes a fresh start. So, if the last quarter (or half, or all) of 2022 included some less than ideal dental habits, there’s good news: you can turn over a new leaf now! If you’re unsure where to start, here are some oral health-specific new year’s resolutions to consider reaching for this year.
Floss Daily
Brushing is important, but it only cleans about 60% of the surface of your teeth. To clean along your gumline and between your teeth, it’s important to also floss. The good news is that there are tools that make this oral hygiene step significantly easier, like oral irrigators! Plus, you can set a reminder on your phone or place a post-it note on your bathroom mirror to help you remember to use it.
Cut Back on Sugar
Sugary foods and drinks are no-doubt delicious, but they also are one of the leading culprits of cavities. Therefore, it’s best to cut back on your intake of soda, candy, and other sweet treats this year. One of the best ways to accomplish this is by increasing your intake of healthy fats, filling carbs, and fresh fruits and vegetables. When you do indulge, opt for a lower-sugar option, like dark chocolate.
Break That Bad Dental Habit
Do you bite your nails when you’re stressed? Do you chew on your pencil at work? Do you smoke? These are just a few unhealthy dental habits that can seriously damage your teeth and gums. They also increase your chances of a dental injury that requires an immediate trip to your emergency dentist’s office. So, if you haven’t already, now is the time to put a plan in place to quit!
Visit Your Dentist Every Six Months
Biannual dental checkups and cleanings are essential for numerous reasons. In addition to periodically screening for tooth decay and gum disease, your dentist uses these appointments to check for oral cancer, provide specific oral hygiene recommendations, and more. If your first preventive care visit isn’t on the calendar yet, then use this as an opportunity to schedule yours!
About the Practice
Dr. Terri Alani attended Texas A&M University before graduating from the University of Texas, Houston. Now, she has more than 30 years of experience in the world of dentistry, and she’s helped countless patients achieve happy, healthy smiles along the way. Plus, she dedicates her time outside the office to lecturing on cosmetic dentistry and staying abreast of the latest techniques with professional organizations, like the Texas Dental Association. If you want to learn more about how to improve your smile this year, don’t hesitate to visit our website or call (713) 621-5141.