Cheers! The new year is here. Many of us ring in the new year by setting goals to achieve a healthier and happier year. Eating better, being more active, and quitting tobacco use are some of the goals we set to upgrade our health and our daily lives.
Upgrading your oral health habits is another goal to reach during the new year to help improve your well-being. Caring for your oral health has many benefits such as a healthier, brighter smile, a safer pregnancy, and a lower risk of oral cancer. Taking your dental care to a higher level can also provide you with better whole health to protect you from serious diseases so you can enjoy life to the fullest.
Below are helpful ways to give your oral health a boost for healthy and happy, new year smile.
Maximize your daily dental care.
Upscaling your dental care routine can help remove harmful bacteria and plaque buildup effectively to prevent tooth decay, gum disease, and bad breath.
A brighter, cleaner smile starts with three basic dental care “tools”. Make sure you have a toothbrush with soft bristles that is less than 3 months old, floss, and a fluoride toothpaste with the ADA Seal of Acceptance.
Raise your tooth brushing technique. Brush your teeth twice (2) a day for two (2) minutes. A quick brush does not remove plaque buildup. Brush thoroughly behind your teeth and your molars to prevent plaque from hardening into tartar. Also, brush your teeth before you go to bed. Don’t forget to brush your tongue!
Floss flawlessly. Make sure to floss the whole side of the tooth and floss slightly below the gum line before moving to the next tooth.
Boost your dental care routine with a fluoride mouth rinse. This can help strengthen tooth enamel and provide an extra level of protection against cavities.
Elevate your healthy habits.
Adopting healthier lifestyle choices can have a positive effect on your whole health and oral health. Take small steps to develop or improve existing behaviors. Look for simple ways to provide your mouth and the rest of your body with better care for a happier new year.
Eat a variety of nutrient-rich foods. Calcium-rich foods, such as low-fat dairy products, fortified soy drinks, tofu, almonds, and dark green leafy vegetables help promote strong teeth. Crisp fruits and raw vegetables, such as apples, carrots, and celery, help clean plaque from teeth and freshen breath.
Choose water in place of sugary drinks. Water helps rinse away food particles and bacteria from your teeth without any of the sugar. It also helps stimulate the flow of saliva, which helps defend against tooth decay.
Quit tobacco use for good. Whiter teeth, fresher breath, and a lower risk of gum disease and oral cancer are some the oral health benefits from quitting the nicotine habit. There are also many health benefits from quitting tobacco use such as improved circulation, better lung function, and a lower risk of a heart attack. If you live in Orange County and would like information on free quit smoking and vaping services or support, call 1-866-NEW-LUNG (1-866-639-5864) or visit 1.866.newlung.com.
Make the most of your dental visits.
Take advantage of preventive dental care visits. Most dental plans cover at least two (2) preventive visits per year. A dental exam can help catch any signs or symptoms of dental disease and treat them in their early stages. A dental cleaning ensures a brighter and healthier smile.
Get dental care advise from the dental team. Ask your dentist or hygienist what you can do better to keep your teeth and gums healthy. Make note of any questions or concerns before your appointment.
Ask about new dental care products. Oral hygiene care items such as toothbrushes, floss, and fluoride rinse are always being developed or improved to make oral hygiene easier and more effective.
