5 Ways to Start the Year with a Healthy Smile

1. Add flossing in your daily routine 

Flossing is one of the most important things you can do (next to brushing!) that helps preserve the health and aesthetics of your smile. Each tooth has five surfaces and your toothbrush only reaches three of them. The other two surfaces are adjacent to the teeth (next to them) and food can easily get stuck in between. This creates an environment where bacteria can develop and results in plaque buildup. When done correctly floss can remove up to 80% of plaque. 

2. Make the switch to an electric toothbrush 

Studies show that using an electric toothbrush cleans the teeth and gums much better than a manual toothbrush. Those who use an electric toothbrush have healthier gums, less tooth decay and also keep their teeth longer (Source, 2019). The bristles on electric toothbrushes vibrate or rotate (allowing more micro-movements) to help remove plaque buildup from your teeth and gums. Electric toothbrushes are also helpful for anyone with limited mobility such as people with carpal tunnel, arthritis and developmental disabilities. They can also be more engaging for kids to help accomplish good oral cleaning and healthy habit setting. 

3. Don’t neglect your tongue 

Did you know that when bacteria covers your tongue and taste buds you might find that your food flavors are muted? The tongue has lots of crevices and cracks for bacteria to grow and hide in. Brushing and scraping your tongue removes that bacteria which in turn will help with better breath, better taste and improve overall oral health. 

4. Cut back on sugar 

Everyone's mouth has bacteria inside and while some types are helpful others can be very harmful. The bacteria from sugars (such as ice cream, candies, cookies and juices) create tooth-enamel destroying acids. When sugar is left on your teeth the acids eat through the enamel and often go deeper into other layers of the teeth which causes cavities. By keeping sugar out of your diet, you can stop cavities from forming and keep your enamel protected. Of course, completely cutting out sugar is easier said than done. Even limiting your sugar intake can do a world of good for your teeth. 

5. Schedule your next dental appointment 

Your mouth is a doorway to both your digestive and respiratory tracts. When your dental health falls to the wayside, you put your entire body at risk for health complications. Even for people with great oral health habits visiting the dentist every 6 months is important to maintaining good oral health. Schedule your next dental appointment today and we can make sure everything in your mouth is healthy and clean for 2021!