Another January is finally here, and if you’re like most people, you’re using the start of a new year as an opportunity to improve yourself. Instead of setting vague, unattainable goals, why not make a few easy New Year’s resolutions designed to benefit your smile’s health and appearance? These four simple, achievable resolutions can help you maintain a healthy smile for all of 2022 and for many years to come!
1. Get Two Dental Checkups This Year
People of all ages need to visit their dentist at least twice a year. January is the perfect time to go ahead and schedule the first of these appointments. They give your dentist the chance to detect any oral health concerns as early as possible. That way, your smile can be treated in cost-effective, conservative ways. Make sure that before you leave from your first dental checkup of 2022, you schedule your next one for six months in the future!
2. Make Flossing Part of Your Routine
Chances are you already know that flossing is important, but starting a flossing habit can be intimidating. Let 2022 be the year you finally incorporate it into your daily routine! If you tend to forget to floss, try placing it right in front of or on top of your toothpaste. If you have trouble using traditional floss, ask your dentist about floss picks, water flossers, or other methods of cleaning between your teeth.
Research indicates that it only takes about three weeks for a daily activity to become a habit, so if you stick with flossing every day, it should become second nature by February!
3. Snack Smarter
Eating less sugar is one of the most popular New Year’s resolutions, and it can also benefit your pearly whites. When you cut back on sugar, the harmful bacteria in your mouth have more difficulty causing cavities and infections, so you end up with a healthier smile. This year, try swapping out sugary, processed snacks for those that contain valuable nutrients for your oral health, such as vitamin C and calcium.
4. Break Bad Biting Habits
In addition to starting healthier habits, the new year is also a great chance to break bad ones. A common example is using your teeth to open packaging or bottles, which could all too easily break a tooth. To avoid this temptation, always keep a bottle opener, box cutter, scissors, or other appropriate tools close by. You should also avoid chewing on your fingernails, ice cubes, or pencils for a similar reason. Popping a piece of sugar-free gum in your mouth can curb your urge to chew on these dangerous objects.
The most effective, longest-lasting New Year’s resolutions are those that you can easily stick to. If you adopt one or more of these resolutions in 2022, your pearly whites will thank you!
About the Practice
At Dentistry by Brand, our four dentists provide a wide range of dental services under one roof. We’ve been providing families in the Garland, TX area with world-class care for more than 30 years, and we can’t wait to help yours! If you’re interested in asking our dentists for personalized tips on getting a healthier smile in 2022, you can reach out to us by calling 972-495-9009.