The new year is in full swing, and if you’re like most other people, you probably have a list of New Year’s resolutions you want to achieve this year. Have you considered adding a healthier smile to that list? It’s so much more than a set of pearly whites, and your San Antonio dentist shares several reasons why making it a priority this year is so important.
New Year’s Resolution: A Healthier Smile
If you haven’t heard or read the phrase, “new year, new me,” in some advertising campaign by now, then it’s only a matter of time before you do. The new year is a chance for a fresh start and an opportunity for you to show your smile a little extra love. Here are a few easy ways you can prioritize it this year:
Practice A Regular Oral Hygiene Routine
Most people brush their teeth at least once a day, however, an alarming nearly 30% say they only floss when they have something stuck in their teeth or not at all. Your toothbrush needs the help of floss to dislodge plaque and leftover food particles from hard-to-reach areas in your mouth. Flossing daily can prevent cavities and the build-up of infection-causing bacteria that can lead to gum disease.
Eat Your Fruits and Veggies
There’s a good reason why your caretakers and doctors urged you to finish your green veggies at mealtimes. Fruits and vegetables have a wide array of vitamins and minerals that play a critical role in keeping your teeth and gums healthy. Even if you’ve gotten out of the habit of including them in your diet on a daily basis, it’s never too late to get back on track!
Cut Back on Your Sugar Intake
Eating less sugar is a popular New Year’s resolution for a multitude of reasons. Aside from trimming down the waistline and restoring energy, cutting back on sugar also has huge oral health benefits. The less sugar you consume, the less risk your teeth have of developing cavities.
See Your Dentist for Routine Checkups
Regular visits to the dentist are one of the best ways to keep your oral health in check, but unfortunately, they often get placed on the backburner. You may not even have known it, but every time your dentist sees you, they check your mouth and throat for signs of oral cancer. The x-rays they perform also allow them to check and make sure your gums and jaw are looking healthy. If your dentist is able to identify potential issues early on, it can save you both money and time on costly treatments later.
Did you know that your smile is one of the first things someone notices when they meet you? Show it a little extra love this year by prioritizing your oral health!
About the Author
Dr. Zachary Brice leads the team of dental experts at his private practice in San Antonio. He is passionate about educating his patients on the importance of taking good care of their smiles. He is also highly committed to growing his skill set and knowledge through continuing education. Nothing makes him happier than to know that he is helping his patients enjoy a better quality of life by keeping their teeth healthy. Are you ready to prioritize your smile this year? Schedule an appointment online or call (210) 680-3611.