Creating New Year’s Resolutions For Your Oral Health

celina new years resolutionsA new year is only a few days away. Have you made any resolutions for 2023? Along with trying new hobbies or exercising more, don’t forget about your teeth and gums. With a few minor changes to your daily routine, you can safeguard your overall oral health. In today’s blog, your Celina, TX, dentist talks about protecting smiles.

Taking Time to Brush and Floss Properly

You should make sure each day starts with brushing your teeth. You should do so for two minutes, and use an electric or manual toothbrush with soft bristles, as this prevents inadvertent enamel damage or gum recession if you brush too hard. In addition, you can time yourself with a song, video, or sand timer. Be sure your toothpaste also contains fluoride, as this helps strengthen the outer enamel, to make cavities less likely. You can look for this on the packaging, along with the American Dental Association’s Seal of Acceptance.

Now, you also need to floss every evening, something that many people overlook. This removes what a toothbrush’s bristles cannot reach and remove, lowering the risk of gingivitis, gum disease, and even cavities, bad breath, and teeth stains. You should run the floss tape up and down each side of every tooth, dipping below the gum line when you do to dislodge trapped particles.

Eating a Healthier Diet

You can also protect your smile by depriving harmful oral bacteria of the meals necessary to create plaque and tartar buildup. Try to lower your consumption of sugar and starch, and eat plenty of fresh fruits, veggies, items high in vitamin C, whole grain breads, and also drink plenty of water too. A healthy diet is good for your smile and your heart!

Checkups

You should also see our team for a checkup every six months. The exam allows us to identify areas of concern and treat them before your smile’s ability is threatened by decay or infection. We can often address concerns before they cause painful symptoms too!

Cleanings

In the same visit, our team can also clean your teeth. A dental cleaning means removing all plaque and tartar buildup with an ultrasonic scaling device and a manual tool. We then polish the teeth for a brighter appearance. The process helps fight bad breath and teeth stains, and lowers the risk of gingivitis and gum disease too. You’re also less likely to develop cavities!

If you have any questions about how we protect your smile, then contact our team today to learn more or schedule your next visit.

Talk to Our Team Today

Contact Celina Family Dentistry in Celina, TX by calling 214-851-0130 to learn more about safeguarding your oral health in 2023 and beyond!