Most of us make New Year’s resolutions, but a lot of them don’t last even through the month of January. Sticking to a new resolution, especially one that has to do with your health, can be difficult, but it’s imperative that you remain committed throughout the whole year. New Year’s health resolutions might be the hardest, but if you stick to them, they will provide the most benefits. Here are five dental health care resolutions to give you healthier teeth and gums in 2020.
Book a Dental Cleaning
According to the American Dental Association, about one-third of Americans don’t see their dentist every year as they should. However, scheduling a checkup and cleaning is one of the most important things you can do when it comes to taking care of your oral health. Your dentist can detect early signs of issues like gum disease or tooth decay. They can also advise you on how to better take care of your dental health while at home. Set a reminder on your phone to call your dentist as soon as they open after New Year’s.
Get in the Habit of Flossing
Speaking of taking care of your oral health at home, one of the best ways to accomplish this is by flossing every day. Ideally, you should floss before bed to remove bacteria that could wreak havoc between your teeth overnight. One way to remember this habit is to place your floss on your bed, so you can’t go to sleep without being reminded.
Give Up Smoking
People who smoke are twice as likely as nonsmokers to develop gum disease, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The condition has been linked to an abundance of other health problems. Pick a date to kick the habit for good and get rid of all the tobacco products in your home. Ask your friends and family to help you through this challenging feat and hold you accountable. Your dentist or doctor also has resources to help you.
Cut Down on Sugar
The more sugar you eat, the more likely you are to develop cavities. One way to reduce your sugar intake is by simply not buying as many sweets. Make healthy substitutes instead, like seltzer water for soda and sugar-free gum instead of candy.
Stick to a Mouth-Healthy Diet
Consume plenty of dairy products to provide your teeth with fortifying calcium. Fresh fruits and vegetables are also a great choice. Their fibrous skins clean your teeth as you chew them and help your mouth produce saliva, which washes away excess food particles and bacteria.
To keep your New Year’s health resolutions, it helps to take it one day at a time. Don’t worry if you mess up one day by eating a piece of caramel or forgetting to floss. Just remember to stick to your resolution the next day!
About the Author
Dr. Luke Lumpkin earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree in 2006 from the University of Oklahoma’s College of Dentistry. His professional memberships include the American Dental Association, the Academy of General Dentistry, and the American Academy of Sleep Dentistry. His ultimate goal in dentistry is to create a positive, high-quality environment that always exceeds his patients’ expectations. To learn more, you can contact Dr. Lumpkin’s Bartlesville, OK practice at (918) 336-6777.