It’s about time for a new calendar, which means it’s also a great time to evaluate our habits, make steps towards our goals and implement changes. While you’re making your list of 2023 New Year’s resolutions, don’t forget about your oral health! Here are a couple oral hygiene resolutions to keep in mind for the upcoming year.
Floss once a day
We’re all guilty of overlooking this part of our dental hygiene routine, but it’s just as vital as brushing our teeth is. Use the New Year to form a frequent habit of flossing. It is recommended that we floss at least once a day to remove food particles and keep our gums healthy. Trust us, if you stick to this habit, your dentist will notice (in a good way)!
Drink more water
Water is important for our body’s health, and more specifically our oral health. Hydration keeps our mouths clean by producing saliva that washes out plaque and bacteria, and helps to prevent dry mouth. Make it your goal to drink at least 2 to 3 liters of water a day, and bring a water bottle with you to school or work as a constant reminder to hydrate.
Improve brushing habits
Even if you brush twice a day as recommended, there are always ways to improve your brushing routine through technique. Often, we don’t brush our teeth for long enough to remove all build-up. Dentists recommend brushing your teeth for 2 minutes twice a day, once in the morning and once at night. Also, it’s best to move your toothbrush in small circles rather than straight across your teeth. By making little changes to your habits this year, you’ll be able to see the difference in your smile by the end of it!
Schedule and keep dentist appointments
Visiting the dentist regularly is a vital part of maintaining a healthy smile. Make it a goal this year to visit your dentist at least twice for scheduled cleanings and check-ups. They will help catch any potential dental problems you may have and locate the right solutions.
So, if you haven’t booked your next appointment with us, call (573) 243-5200 or stop by Jackson Dental’s office at 3100 E Jackson Blvd., Jackson, Mo., to get your visit scheduled.