The beginning of each year is when many people reflect and set new goals they’d want to achieve over the next few months. Achieving better oral health habits should be one of them. Good oral health habits can lead to better overall health by decreasing the risk of diseases that are linked to tooth decay or gum problems. On top of the numerous benefits of having healthy teeth and gums, you will also feel more confident about yourself.
This new year, it’s time to establish a better oral health regime to keep your teeth healthy and happy. Below are some of the most essential oral health habits that you can develop as part of your New Year’s resolution.
1. Never Take Flossing for Granted
Brushing your teeth alone is not enough to cleanse your teeth and gums thoroughly. It’s important to commit yourself to floss your teeth at least once a day.
You may think that flossing is not as important as brushing your teeth. However, it’s inevitable for food or sugar particles to get stuck between your teeth. Flossing is the only way to remove the plaque and bacteria build-up aside from undergoing a dental cleaning. It should, therefore, be an essential part of your home care routine since it can save you from excess cavities that mere brushing can’t remove.
2. Always Brush Before Going to Bed
Forgetting to brush one’s teeth before going to bed is a common problem for many. After a long day, some people may get too tired to do their oral health routine. However, it’s more crucial to brush your teeth when you’re tired. When stress levels are high, the body excretes more acid, which can lead to more bacteria build-up.
Before you resign to bed, it’s essential to brush your teeth no matter how tired you may be. Consider it as an integral part of your routine since you need to get rid of the residue of the food you’ve eaten for the whole day. If you don’t remove them before bed, you will risk the growth of plaque overnight.
3. Establish Routine Dental Visits
When was the last time you went to the dentist? Dental professionals recommend that you visit the dentist every six months for routine check-ups and cleaning. During your visit, your dentist will conduct a thorough screening of possible issues, such as tooth decay, cavities, or gum disease.
A routine examination can help detect problems before they escalate into toothaches. Detecting your dental issues early can save you from possible tooth extractions or other treatments, such as root canal or crowning. Additionally, early treatment can also decrease the risk of health problems that arise from bacteria build-up in the mouth. Some of these health problems include heart disease, high blood pressure, or diabetes.
Conclusion
To unveil a better version of yourself, follow a complete oral health routine as part of your New Year’s resolution. By following the three easy steps, you can ensure that your teeth and gums can stay healthy for many years to come. Clean your teeth properly and visit your dentist regularly so that you can prevent more serious oral health problems. Talk to your dentist about your dental concerns and feel free to ask what other habits you can incorporate into your home care routine.
If you are looking to learn more about dental care in Ann Arbor, get in touch with us today! We’re happy to help.