As we head into 2025, we encourage everyone to make it their best year yet! You may be resolving to save more money, get in shape, or spend more time with family, but we encourage you include good dental habits in those resolutions too! When it comes to your oral health, there are many opportunities to improve in the New Year. Keep reading for suggestions on New Year’s resolutions to get and keep your healthy smile from Dr. Peck, your local dentist in New Braunfels.
Give Up the Sugary Beverages
Sugary soda, juices, and sweetened coffee drinks can wreak havoc on your pearly whites. Bacteria feed off the sugar in your mouth, and the more sugar you are consuming - the more fuel they have to spread! Too much bacteria can lead to tooth decay, cavities, and even tooth loss. It can be hard to quit cold turkey, but even a moderate reduction in the number of sugary beverages you drink each day can help reduce your risk of tooth decay. Sugar-free beverages like flavored sparkling water can give you the fizz you’re looking for without the sugar!
Quit Smoking
Using cigarettes and other tobacco products can increase your risk for tooth discoloration, cavities, gum recession, gum disease and throat, lung and oral cancer. Smokers are about twice as likely to lose their teeth as non-smokers. This also includes smokeless/chewing tobacco, which can be just as harmful to your oral health. The good news is that the risk of tooth loss decreases after you quit smoking or using smokeless tobacco.
Quitting smoking can be difficult, so talk to your doctor about strategies to help you kick the habit. Check out smokefree.gov for more resources.
Upgrade your Dental Routine
As we’ve previously discussed, brush twice each day using fluoride toothpaste, flossing once per day, and rinse with mouthwash after brushing are the cornerstones of good dental health. However, upgrading your dental products can help you go farther towards maximum . An electric toothbrush is much more effective than a manual toothbrush at removing plaque, staining, and improving gum health. They are also gentle on teeth and gums, making them an excellent choice for people with sensitive mouths. Dr. Peck recommends Philips Sonicare’s line of rechargeable electric toothbrushes. They start at around $50 for basic models, but the newer, fancier models will run a bit higher. If you are less than regular about flossing, your floss could be the problem! Thicker, coated flosses are more comfortable and easier to use, making you more likely to actually floss each day! When it comes to toothpaste, are you using the best available option for your dental needs? Making sure it contains fluoride is the most important feature in your toothpaste, but there are many other things to consider. Whether you have tooth or gum sensitivity, want enamel protection, extra whitening power, or maximum freshness, there is a toothpaste out there for you! Check out our previous guide to the best drugstore products for our favorites.
Without proper brushing and flossing, you may develop bleeding gums, which may worsen to severely swollen, red, bleeding gums (gingivitis) and, eventually, gum disease. Because diseases of the mouth can affect the rest of your body, maintaining good oral health can help protect your whole body.
And of course - you should definitely resolve to schedule your bi-annual cleaning and exam.
Visiting the dentist twice a year is an important part of keeping your mouth healthy. The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends that you visit your dentist at least twice a year for a routine checkup. Regular cleaning and dental exams help maintain optimal oral health and identify any potential dental concerns before they have a chance to develop into something more serious. Most dental insurance plans renew at the beginning of the year, so it’s a perfect time to schedule your first appointment of the year.
Smile New Braunfels is here to help you keep your dental resolutions. Give us a call today to schedule your first dental appointment in 2025! (830) 629-8011
