Now that 2023 is here, you may want to pursue some self-improvement goals. That’s only natural — January is the month for New Year’s resolutions, after all! In particular, it’s a great time to start working towards a healthier smile, as doing so this month lets you enjoy your oral health for most of the year. Thankfully, your Muskegon dentist is here to make this process smoother. Here’s a summary of five New Year’s resolutions that can give you healthy teeth.
Hydrate More Often
You’d be surprised at the harm a dry mouth can do. Since the latter lacks saliva, it can’t wash harmful bacteria from your teeth. The result is an increased risk of tooth decay and cavities.
Luckily, a New Year’s resolution to stay hydrated can prevent a dry mouth. Just sip on water all day long to keep your oral cavity moist!
Have Fewer Sugary Drinks
As you might know, sugary foods harm teeth; they can cause cavities, gum disease, and worse. However, beverages like soda and sports drinks are often worse. The latter items coat your mouth in sugar without you even realizing it.
Given that fact, consider resolving to have fewer sugary drinks. This practice would reduce your overall sugar intake, so you’d suffer less enamel loss. For example, cut back to only having one soda, sports drink, or coffee daily if you usually have more.
Reduce Snacking
No matter what you normally eat, reducing your snacks would benefit your smile. Between-meal eating helps oral bacteria, allowing them to grow and produce more tooth-eroding acids.
A better idea is to stick to three well-balanced meals per day. That way, you’ll stay full more often and expose your smile to less harm.
Eat “Mouth Healthy” Foods
Even if you avoid sugary junk, your meals could hurt your teeth. Citrus fruits, crackers, bread, and other products have acids and carbs that trigger tooth decay when eaten in excess.
You’re better off with a diet of “mouth healthy” lean proteins, dairy, and leafy greens. These foods are packed with vitamins and minerals that keep teeth strong.
See Your Dentist Regularly
Another good resolution for this year is to see your dentist at least twice. Regular dental checkups let them diagnose and treat oral issues early. That way, you can avoid potential dental emergencies later.
If dental anxiety is holding you back, you could always try sedation dentistry. This service would help you overcome your fear of the dentist.
As you can see, a year of excellent oral health is reachable. Therefore, use the above resolutions to achieve it!
About the Practice
Healthy Smiles Dental Care is based in Muskegon, MI. Led by Drs. Rodriguez, Spraggins, and Sevener, our practice offers excellent dentistry for kids and adults alike. To that end, we perform high-quality preventive, cosmetic, and restorative treatments, as well as emergency dental care. Our office also takes pride in being a certified provider of Invisalign clear aligners! For more information or to book a visit, reach us on our website or by phone at (231)-563-6878.