Imagine doing something that boosts your health and fattens your wallet – well if you still used actual dollar bills. That’s a textbook win-win situation. This can become a reality through improved oral health, which makes for an excellent goal when you are considering New Year’s resolutions. You can alter your daily dental hygiene regimen, and before long you’ve changed a problematic behavior without even thinking about it. Keep reading for suggestions from your dentist in Myrtle Beach on New Year’s resolutions for a healthy smile.
Resolution #1: Quit Using Tobacco Products
Smoking and the use of other tobacco products invite oral health problems and stain your teeth. Nicotine is highly addictive but consulting a medical professional for insight on quitting can help you break free of the urge.
Resolution #2: Make Healthier Choices with Your Diet
Your diet can have a significant impact on your oral health. Steps to improve your diet can include limiting your consumption of sugary or acidic foods and beverages, reducing snacking, rinsing your mouth with water after having meals or sugary drinks, and eating lots of fruits and veggies.
Resolution #3: Visit Your Dentist Every Six Months
The best way to stop dental issues in their tracks is to detect them early or prevent them from happening in the first place. Regular visits to your dentist will help ensure that no dental issues go unnoticed or worsen into something more serious.
Resolution #4: Combat Dry Mouth
Your saliva is crucial to maintaining the health of your teeth and gums, as it provides your enamel with minerals, neutralizes acidity, and helps wash away food matter and debris. Fortunately, there are many ways to reduce dry mouth, such as chewing sugar-free gum or drinking milk to increase saliva production, drinking water regularly and especially before bed, and avoiding excessive alcohol consumption or using illegal drugs.
Resolution #5: Implement Helpful Oral Hygiene Habits
Some examples of stellar dental care to power up your smile include gently brushing twice each day with a soft-bristled toothbrush, holding your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to your gumline, using fluoride toothpaste, flossing, or utilizing an interdental brush once per day, and rinsing with mouthwash after brushing.
Following through on New Year’s resolutions for a healthy smile is an excellent, money-saving choice. Allow yourself enough time for your new routine to morph into habits. For more helpful ideas, talk to your Myrtle Beach dentist during your next appointment!
About the Author
Dr. Jack Markusen has been working hard for the smiles of South Carolina for more than four decades. He prides himself on taking an artistic approach to general dentistry and cosmetic dentistry. Dr. Markusen is a proud member of the South Carolina Dental Association. He loves the idea of patients setting New Year’s resolutions to improve their oral health. He can definitely help with the one about getting a dental cleaning and exam, which you can schedule on his website or by calling (843) 916-0990.