Make New Year's Resolutions for Your Teeth

A new year is quickly approaching, so if you are like most people, you may have already started to think about making your New Year's resolutions. It is common for people to resolve to quit bad habits, save more money or start exercising. Those are all great, but what about promising to take better care of your teeth? It is easy to take your teeth for granted, but they actually play a major role in your overall health and they have a direct effect on a number of body systems. Making a New Year's resolution to keep your teeth healthy will go a long way towards keeping you healthy and giving you a healthier, brighter smile throughout 2018.

Eat Fruits and Vegetables

Making a New Year's resolution to eat healthy is one of the most important things you can do for your dental health. Poor nutrition can affect your immune system and increase the risk to a variety of oral disorders, including gum disease. The natural antioxidants and nutrients found in fruits and vegetables help improve your body's ability to fight inflammation and bacteria as well as provide protection for your teeth and gums.

Quit Tobacco Products

Making the decision to quit using tobacco products is one of the most common New Year's resolutions. The use of tobacco can cause oral cancer, throat cancer, tooth discoloration and gum disease. In fact, people who smoke or chew tobacco are twice as likely to lose their teeth as those who don't. The good news is your risk of tooth loss significantly decreases after you quit using smokeless tobacco and your dentist can remove the discoloration to give you a brighter smile.

Keep Brushing and Flossing

One of the most important things you can do to protect your teeth from gum disease and tooth decay is to have a solid brushing and flossing routine. For a healthy, bright smile, you should brush your teeth at least twice per day and floss at least once per day. Without proper oral care, you may develop gum disease or experience tooth loss. Plus, not taking care of your teeth and gums can have a significant effect on your overall health, including increasing the risk for heart disease.

One of the most important New Year's resolutions you can make for a healthier smile is to visit your dentist regularly. Routine visits to the dentist can help prevent oral health problems before they start. The start of a new year is also the perfect time to make a resolution regarding the dental services you have been putting off. If you have been living with pain in your teeth and gums or are fed up with hiding your smile because of staining, schedule a dental appointment today and we can help you stick with your New Year's resolution of having a whiter, brighter and healthier smile.