We are at the beginning of a new year, and you probably have some worthwhile goals in mind for the upcoming months. Perhaps you want to shed some extra weight, visit the gym more often, or even start learning a new language. But have you thought about adding a few New Year’s resolutions for a healthier smile? Continue reading below to learn about some easy things you can do to take better care of your gums and teeth in 2023.
Floss Daily
If you find flossing to be a chore, you are far from alone. However, it is a vital habit because it removes bacteria, plaque, and food particles from the tight spaces between your teeth — areas that your toothbrush cannot adequately clean. Talk to your dental team if you would like some guidance on proper flossing technique.
Brush for Two Full Minutes
You probably already brush your teeth twice a day, but do you brush them for a full two minutes each time? Try to spend 30 seconds cleaning each quadrant of your mouth. A basic timer on your cell phone can help you keep tabs on your brushing time. Alternatively, you could invest in an electric toothbrush that signals you when it is time to switch to a new section of your mouth.
Cut Back on Sugar
Many people resolve to “eat clean” at the beginning of a new year. However, they often make overly strict rules for themselves and end up giving up on their goals after just a couple of weeks. Instead of trying to completely eliminate sugar from your diet, focus on cutting back.
For example, you might try eating dessert less often, drinking water instead of soda, or swapping our candy bars for fresh fruit. Because sugar is a big contributor to cavities, your efforts can protect your teeth against decay.
Start Using a Tongue Scraper
If you brush your tongue with your toothbrush, you are removing bacteria and food particles from it. However, did you know that a tongue scraper can be even more effective? A tongue scraper is a small, inexpensive, and easy-to-use device that can help you to have the cleanest mouth possible.
Visit Your Dentist
You should try to visit your dentist at least twice each year for a checkup and cleaning. Why not get things off to a great start by scheduling an appointment for early in 2023? Then, book your next exam for sometime this summer. Regularly seeing your dentist can do much to help you catch dental problems before they become serious.
What do you hope to achieve in 2023? The above resolutions can help you enjoy a healthy smile this year and well into the future.
Meet the Practice
Dr. Erick Anderson is a compassionate, skilled dentist with nearly 30 years of experience in his field. He offers a wide range of services, including preventive and restorative care. If you would like his help to look after your smile in 2023, contact Anderson Family Dental at 719-593-0988.