You certainly don’t want to be dealing with dental issues as you are progressing throughout 2021. However, many people aren’t always taking all the steps they need in order for their oral health to thrive. The good news is that there is no better time of year for you to make changes in order to keep yourself healthy. Don’t forget about your smile. Continue reading for some ideas for New Year’s resolutions for a dentist in Lawrenceville.
See Your Dentist Regularly
You are supposed to be seeing your dentist every six months for regular checkups. However, a third of Americans don’t see a dentist as often as they would like to. Now is a great time to change that. Give your dentist a call so you can schedule an appointment. Don’t forget to book your next visit before you leave the practice.
Floss More Frequently
Even though you’d like to, you can’t hide the fact that you haven’t been flossing often from your dentist. Brushing goes a long way when it comes to keeping your smile clean, but it isn’t enough on its own. There are certain areas in your mouth that the bristles cannot reach. Dental floss is necessary so that you can remove food debris, plaque, and harmful bacteria from between the teeth and beneath the gumline. Try setting an alarm on your phone each night so that you don’t forget.
Cut Back on Sugar
Everyone loves a sugary treat now and again, but too many can lead to disaster for your smile. Bacteria in your mouth feed off sugar and release acid as a by-product. This acid is what is so damaging for your smile. Purchase fewer sweet treats when you go to the store. Stock up on other items that can fulfill your cravings. Replace your cola with sparkling water. Instead of candy, have some sugar-free gum.
Have More Smile-Friendly Foods
There are certain vitamins and minerals that your smile needs in order to stay healthy. Be sure to have plenty of nutrient-rich foods in your diet. For instance, dairy products are high in calcium which is necessary for your bones and teeth to remain strong. Include milk, yogurt, and cheese in your diet. Other tooth-healthy foods include almonds, cranberries, apples, pears, carrots, and celery.
Stop Smoking
You already knew that smoking leads to health risks, but did you know that it is harmful for your oral health as well? Tobacco products double your risk for periodontal disease and are linked to oral cancer. This habit is very difficult for many people to give up, so it is important to find a healthier replacement activity for when the craving kicks in. Talk to your doctor, friends, and family about the best ways for you to quit.
This coming year, keep your oral health in mind. By using some of the resolutions listed above, you can set your smile up for success!
About the Author
Dr. Bruce E. Carter earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery from the University of Florida College of Dentistry and is committed to continuing his education. He is a Fellow of the Academy of General Dentistry and has finished lever six of the Pankey Institute for Advanced Dental Education. For more information or to schedule an appointment, visit his website or call (770) 995-7616.