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5 New Year’s Resolutions Good for Your Mouth

KFDentistry Holly Springs Dentist, Teeth Cleaning Leave a Comment

New Year’s resolutions have been around for thousands of years. According to the History Channel, the ancient Babylonians may have been the first people to say, “I’m going to do better next year” — about 4,000 years ago.

While you are writing down your list of goals for next year, you are probably including a few related to your health, such as losing weight, exercising more, and quitting smoking. But your oral health is just as critical and not something to forget. Improve your smile and your overall oral health with these five resolutions for next year:

  • I will floss every day. Regular use of dental floss removes plaque, the buildup of which can lead to tartar. Flossing your teeth can also make them look brighter by removing plaque and excess food particles that you may not see in the mirror or in areas that your toothbrush doesn’t reach.
  • I will use mouthwash. Mouthwash can effectively kill germs and bacteria that brushing or flossing failed to pick up. Mouthwash can prevent plaque from spreading throughout your mouth before it becomes unmanageable. Mouthwashes also temporarily cure bad breath and may leave you with a fresh feeling.
  • I will cut back on sugar.This resolution is a two-for-one! Lowering your sugar intake is good for your waistline. Plus, eating too much sugar can lead to tooth decay. Harmful bacteria feed on the sugars you eat to create acids that destroy the tooth enamel, which is the protective outer layer of the tooth. An easy way to reverse tooth damage and make sure your gums are getting the healthy support they need through your diet. Read about some healthy foods for your gums.
  • I will stop smoking. Another bonus resolution. You know tobacco hurts your lungs and heart, but it also hurts your teeth. Cigarettes limit your mouth’s ability to fight off infection, which leaves you defenseless against the bacteria produced by smoking. When your mouth can’t fight back, plaque and bacteria fester. Smoking also causes tooth discoloration, bad breath, gum disease, oral cancer, and yellow teeth.
  • I will schedule a dental appointment. Dental hygienists and dentists are trained to look at all aspects of oral health can teach you proper oral hygiene. A lot of people skip six-month checkups out of fear or the idea that “it’s not necessary.”  However, visiting us regularly ensures your teeth stay clean and healthy, preventing problems later.

 

You don’t have to wait until January! Contact us today to make your appointment.

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