5 New Year’s Resolution Ideas for a Healthier Mouth from a Dentist in Bellevue

When January comes around, you know it’s time to make those New Year’s resolutions. What should you try to do this year? You want it to be something important but also something that you’ll actually be able to accomplish. How about improving your oral health? You can do that! From a dentist in Bellevue, here are 5 ideas for resolutions that you can make and keep to succeed this year.

Quit Smoking

In addition to increasing the risk for other health conditions, when you smoke, your risk for gum disease doubles. It also leaves stains on your teeth that are difficult to remove. With support, you can quit this habit and significantly improve your oral health.

Commit to Flossing

Brushing your teeth gets rid of some of the harmful bacteria and plaque on your teeth, but your toothbrush bristles can’t fit into the spaces in between. That’s a lot of surface area in your mouth left unprotected! Flossing gets rid of what the toothbrush can’t reach.

If you aren’t sure that you’re flossing correctly, your hygienist or dentist can show you the proper technique to use. If you struggle to remember to floss, try putting the floss container right next to your toothpaste at home. Also bring a container of floss with you in your purse or for your desk at work, just in case you forget.

Reduce Your Sugar Intake

Not only can cutting back on sugar help your waistline, but it can also help your teeth. After all, the harmful bacteria that live in your mouth thrive on sugar to create acid that attacks your teeth. If you reduce your intake of sugar, you can also decrease your risk for tooth decay considerably. When you crave something sweet, try chewing on sugar-free gum instead.

Choose More Orally Healthy Foods

To replace the sugar you’re going to cut back on, you can choose more mouth-friendly foods, including dairy products and fibrous fruits and vegetables, such as apples and carrots. These foods can strengthen teeth and encourage saliva production, which helps to wash away the plaque and other food left behind.

Schedule Regular Dental Checkups

You probably know already that you should visit your dentist twice a year for cleanings and checkups. But why? Despite best efforts with brushing and flossing, some plaque inevitably remains in your mouth. When it hardens, it becomes tartar, which can only be removed with professional tools. Also, dentists perform oral exams to catch and address any problems like tooth decay or gum disease. Even if you don’t have serious conditions, the dentist may be able to catch a little problem before it develops into a big one. Besides, most dental insurances cover two dental checkups and cleanings per year. Why not take advantage?

In the end, your success on keeping your resolutions depends on you and your determination. Instead of letting this year’s resolutions fail after a few weeks, make the effort to stick to these ones long term. Integrating these goals into your life will improve your oral health and keep your smile bright and confident.

About the Author

At Bellevue Family & Cosmetic Dentistry, the dentists and staff use the most advanced instruments, materials, and techniques to deliver a level of care you simply won’t find anywhere else. Their imaging technology helps them find, diagnose, and treat problems faster than ever. They believe in personalized care and educating patients to make them partners in their dental care. You can contact Bellevue Family & Cosmetic Dentistry by calling (425) 641-1902 or clicking here.