With the New Year already here, many people have already set goals for themselves to accomplish over the next 12 months. Maybe you’re trying to lose weight, get a better job, or save up some money. However, everyone and their dog are trying these resolutions. Why not attempt something a little different? This year, why not focus on improving your oral health? Here are five ideas for dental health resolutions from a dentist in Tullahoma.
1. Eat a Mouth-Healthy Diet
Eating well benefits more than just your waistline. Lack of proper nutrition can hinder your immune system’s ability to fight off oral infections like gum disease. Fruits, vegetables, nuts, and legumes are rich in antioxidants and other nutrients that combat inflammation and bacteria in your mouth. Chewing crisp fruits and veggies like carrots and apples naturally scrub plaque off your teeth and freshen your breath.
2. Quit Smoking
People who smoke are about twice as likely as nonsmokers to lose their teeth. They’re also more at risk for gum disease, tooth staining, bad breath, and cancers of the mouth, throat, and lungs. In short, nothing good can come from using tobacco products. Ask your dentist or doctor for resources to help you kick the habit once and for all.
3. Cut Down on Alcohol Consumption
You may already be aware of the detrimental effects that alcohol can have on your general health, but did you know that it can increase your risk of gum disease and tooth decay? This is because alcohol dries out your mouth. Since saliva washes away food particles and bacteria from your teeth and gums, those objects are more likely to stick around and wreak havoc on your oral health. If you’re going to drink, do so in moderation. A good rule of thumb is to consume one glass of water for every alcoholic drink.
4. Floss Every Day
Gum disease often begins with plaque buildup between your teeth and along your gumline. The best way to remove plaque from these areas is to clean them daily with dental floss. Set your floss down right by your toothbrush so that you remember to engage in the habit every night before bed.
5. Schedule a Dental Checkup
Oral health problems like cavities and gum disease often don’t display symptoms until serious damage has already been done. For this reason, you should see your dentist at least twice a year. At these appointments, your dentist can check for early signs of these issues and take care of them while treating them is still relatively easy and inexpensive. Call your dentist as soon as you can to book a checkup and cleaning.
Make 2020 the year you finally get proactive about oral health with these resolutions. Your mouth will thank you for it!
About the Author
Dr. John E. Petty regularly pursues more than 100 hours of continuing education courses annually. In 2003, he even earned a Fellowship with the prestigious Academy of General Dentistry. He has been serving the Tullahoma, TN community since 1984, and has never regretted it. He believes that most dental health problems can be avoided through preventive care and proper oral hygiene. For more advice on how to implement the resolutions listed above into your daily life, visit his website.