It’s that time again — the season for new starts and resolutions.
While many of us make promises to ourselves at the beginning of each year, it can be difficult to stick to them as the months progress. But, committing to your wellness is worth the effort and we encourage all of our patients to try and improve their oral health this year. Fortunately, with just a little effort, it’s possible to keep your smile looking and feeling great.
Need some help setting your New Year’s resolutions? Here are our suggestions …
- Make an appointment for a check-up
With a busy schedule, work commitments and family events that tend to fill the calendar throughout the year, we know it can be difficult to find time to get around to booking a dental appointment. But, visiting us for regular check-ups is one of the most important elements when it comes to maintaining your oral health, and is well worth it in the long term. Even if you haven’t noticed any issues and think that your teeth look and feel fine, it’s essential that you have them checked every 6 months. Often, gum disease doesn’t cause any symptoms until it is at an advanced stage, so it’s best to catch small problems early. At your check-up, Dr Hall will look for any irregularities and cavities, as well as more serious problems like periodontal disease or oral cancer. This is also a good time to have a teeth cleaning and deep scale done to keep your smile in tip-top shape. - Commit to a healthy routine
At-home dental care is a crucial part of keeping your teeth and gums healthy. This includes brushing your teeth in the morning and at night, as well as flossing at least once a day. An established routine removes leftover food debris that may be caught in your teeth and also helps to reduce the number of bacteria in your mouth. This reduces the build-up of plaque, which can lead to tooth decay and gum disease. If flossing isn’t already a part of your routine, why not make it one of your New Year’s resolutions? - Limit your intake of sugary treats
You may have indulged over the festive season, but the new year is a great time to kick your sugar habit and commit to maintaining a healthier, more balanced diet. Consuming foods and drinks that are high in sugar increases your risk of developing tooth decay significantly because the bacteria in your mouth reacts with the sugar, turning them into acids which erode the enamel of the teeth. Switch sugary snacks for fresh fruits and vegetables, and drink plenty of water instead of sweet sodas and juices. - Eat more foods that are good for your teeth
When you decrease your sugar intake, try and opt for foods that are actually good for your teeth. Calcium-rich dairy products like milk, cheese, and yogurt help to keep your teeth healthy and strong, while fibrous foods like fresh vegetables and crunchy fruits can help to keep your teeth clean in between brushing. Chewing sugar-free gum after meals keeps up the production of saliva and helps to keep the mouth clean. If you’re looking for a drink besides water, consider green tea — it contains compounds that suppress bacteria and slow down the processes that are responsible for tooth decay and gum disease. - Quit smoking
Research shows that smoking doubles the risk of gum disease. Also, the habit is linked to a number of other health issues, so for the sake of your overall wellbeing, try and stop smoking as soon as possible. Ask your family and friends for their support, and if you need help, consider reaching out to your general practitioner for tips and advice.
Ready to schedule an appointment with Dr. Hall? Please get in touch with us by calling our Colorado Springs office at (719) 481 8250 or contact us here. The Studio for Exceptional Dentistry is a one-stop-shop for you and your family, and we offer a wide range of services such as general dentistry, cosmetic procedures, gum disease treatment, deep cleanings, and root canal therapy. We want you to show off your smile without hesitation and are dedicated to serving the Colorado Springs community with personalized and gentle care.
