So many of us make New Year’s resolutions, but most of us are likely to let it slide as the year becomes busy again.
If you want to take better care when looking after your teeth and gums this year, these five resolutions can keep you diligent:
1. Schedule a Dental Appointment
Has it been a while since you’ve seen a dentist? Booking this appointment is one of the most important things you can do when looking after your teeth. According to the ADA (Australian Dental Association), some conditions – such as sensitivity in the teeth or bleeding gums – are sure signs that it’s time to see a dentist. Even if your teeth look and feel fine, pop a reminder in your phone or calendar for January 1 so that you can call your dentist on January 2 for a check-up appointment. Dr Emma Bond and Dr Justin Currie in Penrith are available to see new patients.
2. Commit to Flossing
Although brushing is a great way to keep your teeth and mouth clean, flossing removes bits of food from your teeth that your toothbrush can’t. To take the best care of your teeth, you need to brush twice a day and floss. If you’re not in the habit of flossing, the new year is a great time to start! Try putting a container of floss on top of or directly next to your toothpaste. Position the container so that you have to touch it when taking your toothpaste out of the drawer or cabinet. Stash another container of floss in your purse or desk drawer at work, so that you can floss on the go if you forget to do it at home.
3. Cut Back on Sugar
A study published confirmed a direct link between the amount of sugar a person eats and the amount of tooth decay a person has. Cutting back on sugar can cut your risk for tooth decay considerably. The most convenient way to cut back on sugar is to reduce the number of sugary treats you buy. Simple swaps will help you cut back as well: Drink sugar-free seltzer water instead of soda, or chew a piece of sugar-free gum when you have a craving for something sweet.
4. Eat More Mouth-Healthy Foods
When you cut back on sugar, resolve to add more orally healthy foods to your diet to solidify your diet’s benefit to your teeth. Dairy products, which are high in calcium, are great for your teeth, as are fibrous foods that call up saliva and scrub away plaque and other food bits.
5. Don’t give up
Making your new year’s resolutions as easy as possible to stick with will help you keep them. Take things one step at a time, and if you forget to floss one day or eat a big piece of caramel the next, don’t give up. Remember that there’s always tomorrow!
Always seek the advice of your dentist or other qualified healthcare providers with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment. Our experienced team of dentists at Tindale Dental Centre are here to help you with your oral health. To make an appointment, please call (02) 4726 5400.