The New Year will be upon us sooner than you might think. So what does 2014 have in store for you? While many people commit to New Year’s resolutions at the beginning of each year, 9 out of 10 people never follow through with them.
We’ve talked a lot about the importance of a healthy smile. So this year, why not and try making a different type of New Year’s resolution: Improving your oral health.
Your oral health has a significant impact, not only on your mouth and teeth, but on your overall health as well. Making small improvements over the course of the year will require only minor effort for a hugely valuable return.
Here are three rules to stick to when you get started towards improved oral health on January 1:
Brush and Floss Twice Daily
This one might seem like a no-brainer. But you’d be surprised just how many patients I have to remind that they need to be flossing twice a day as well as brushing. Without both of these elements, you’re really doing your teeth a disservice. If you floss and brush twice a day from the very beginning of the year, you’ll be well on your way to achieving a healthier, whiter smile with less risk of gum disease.
Keep Up with Regular Dental Appointments
While many patients have the self-confidence to keep up with their oral health all on their own, there’s nothing wrong with a little bit of help when it comes down to it! A regular dentist appointment is a perfect supplement to the work you do in front of the bathroom mirror at home. Us dentists are here to recognize potential problem areas that are easy for people to miss. I like to say that we’re the best line of defence – your personal oral health partner.
Watch Your Sugar Consumption
Even though this might seem like an impossible task now that it’s the holiday season, you’d be surprised just how easy this will become once the New Year begins! Limit yourself to one or two sugary treats each week right from the get-go and supplement the rest of your sugar cravings with fruit (not only are they sweet, but they will actually improve your oral health).
The Reward
By making these small changes, you’ll notice a huge difference by the end of the year! By following these simple rules, sticking to a New Year’s resolution will seem like no effort at all! I challenge all of my readers and patients to take on these changes (even if you’ve already got another resolution in mind) and start the journey to better oral health!
If you have more questions, feel free to stop into my Davisville dental office for a consultation! We can’t wait to see you – Happy Holidays!
Want to share your new Year’s resolution? We’d love to hear about it and how you’re doing as then year progresses. Connect with us on Facebook and share your stories!
