How’s your oral health? Is it good enough for 2022? For the new year, it can be a good idea to set a resolution to improve your oral health. Here are some tips on how to improve your dental hygiene and maintain a healthy mouth in 2022:
Brush and Floss Daily:
This is the most basic and essential way to keep your teeth healthy. The American Dental Association recommends you brush twice a day for two minutes each time, and floss once a day. It is also important to use a fluoridated toothpaste to keep your enamel strong and decrease the risk of decay.
Decrease Sugar Intake
Decreasing your sugar intake is one easy way to improve both your oral and overall health. Consuming excess sugars has been associated with health problems such as obesity and type 2 diabetes. Not only that, but sugar is one of the main contributors to tooth decay. This is because bacteria feed on sugars and then deposit an acidic waste product that erodes enamel.
Increase Fruits & Vegetable Intake
One common resolution is to eat healthier. Eating more fruits and vegetables is not only beneficial to your overall health, but to your oral health as well. Crunchy fruits and vegetables are beneficial because they have a high moisture content and can clean plaque of the teeth. Broccoli and celery are especially good for cleaning the teeth.
Try Cosmetic Dentistry:
If you’re not happy with the appearance of your teeth, cosmetic dentistry may be an option for you. Procedures such as braces, veneers, and teeth whitening can all help you achieve the smile of your dreams. Cosmetic dental treatments can be used to repair broken teeth, restore decayed teeth, and correct gum problems. In some cases, it can even be used to replace missing teeth.
Drink More Water
Water is essential for many bodily functions, and oral health is one of them. Drinking water helps to keep your mouth moist, wash away food particles and bacteria, and decrease the likelihood of cavities. Try to drink at least eight glasses a day to stay hydrated. Being hydrated prevents dry mouth and decreases the risk of tooth decay.
Switch Your Toothbrush:
Toothbrushes can accumulate germs and bacteria over time, so it is important to switch out your toothbrush every three months or after you’ve had a cold, the flu, strep throat, or any other illness that could have compromised your immune system. A good indicator that it is time to change your toothbrush is when the bristles are frayed or faded.
Visit The Dentist Regularly:
Another important way to preserve your oral health is to visit your dentist at least twice a year per ADA recommendations. Your dentist can remove tartar and plaque from your teeth during a professional cleaning, as well as detect any issues with cavities. Regular dental care is essential for maintaining good oral health throughout 2022 and beyond.
Improving your oral health for 2022 can be achieved in a variety of ways. Eating healthier, drinking more water and visiting the dentist regularly are all great resolutions that will help you take care of your teeth and gums to ensure they’re healthy by this time next year. Whether you’ve resolved to brush twice a day or drink eight glasses of water, we want to hear about what steps you plan on taking so we can give our best dental hygiene tips! Share with us how these simple changes have helped improve your oral health today.
