Making New Year’s resolutions for improving yourself in the year to come is a popular thing to do in January. Unfortunately, studies suggest that 60-75% of these healthy goals don’t make it past February. Why is that? Many people set resolutions with good intentions, but the end goal is too lofty or the path to achieve it is too vague. If you’re looking for a practical way to make a difference in your life this year, try starting with your oral health! Read on as we cover four easy and important resolutions you can make to achieve a healthier, more beautiful smile in 2022!
1.) Visit Your Dentist Twice This Year
Has it been more than six months since your last dental checkup and cleaning? Then it’s time to go again! Seeing your dentist twice a year, even if your teeth aren’t bothering you, is the best way to catch oral health issues as early as possible and prevent them from getting worse. After your checkup, consider scheduling your next one before you even leave the office so you don’t forget! You can always reschedule later if there are scheduling conflicts.
2.) Brush Up on Your Brushing Technique
Did you know that most people only brush their teeth for 45-70 seconds? This is pretty far off from the American Dental Association’s recommendation of two full minutes twice a day! Successful resolutions start with healthy habits, so make the effort to perfect your brushing technique, either by practicing, watching instructional videos, or talking with your dentist. Brush each quadrant of your mouth for 30 seconds, making sure to use small circular motions, a soft-bristled toothbrush, and fluoridated toothpaste.
3.) Cut Back on Soda
One of the most popular New Year’s resolutions is to lose weight, and many people get a jump in their progress when they cut out soda from their diets. Unfortunately, many people are only considering the sugar values of soda and choose diet soda thinking it’s a healthier choice. While it indeed has fewer calories, it is just as harmful for your teeth as regular, non-diet soda. The acidic nature burns through your enamel, weakening it and leaving it sensitive and weakened. Consider swapping out soda entirely with healthier choices like milk or water.
4.) Stop Chewing on Hard Objects
What do you do when you’re nervous or bored? Many people unconsciously chew on hard objects to work off extra energy. However, this seemingly harmless habit could lead to a chipped or fractured tooth, as well as a trip to your emergency dentist, in the blink of an eye! If you chew on ice, pen caps, fingernails, or other hard items, make a conscious effort to stop doing so. Consider biting into a crunchy apple or chewing some sugarless gum instead.
If you’re looking for practical and beneficial New Year’s resolutions, there’ no better place than to start with your oral health! Try out one or all of the above resolutions to help your smile look and feel its best!
About the Practice
Dr. Bobby J. Carmen and his team are dedicated to providing high-quality dental care for the smile of Norman and the surrounding communities. Thanks to his continuing education and dedication to his craft, he is proud to offer a wide variety of the latest dental services so you can achieve exactly the right results. If you are interested in improving your smile this year but aren’t sure where to start, don’t hesitate to contact him online or at (405) 364-2200.