While many focus on fitness goals or career aspirations, we challenge you to something even better – achieving a healthier, happier smile this New Year with our dental tips.
Unless you’ve had a recent dental health scare, you’ll likely focus your new year resolutions on fitness goals or career aspirations like most people do.
Yet, studies have shown that dental hygiene and health is closely linked to your overall health and wellbeing, so why not make a resolution for it too?
Maybe you’re thinking, “I already brush my teeth daily – what else is there to do?” Well my friend, you’ve asked the right question. We’re here to answer that by bringing you on an enlightening journey of renewed dental hygiene with our 12 dental tips that your smile will love!
Caring for your oral health is vital for a bright smile. A new year provides the perfect opportunity to improve your daily oral hygiene habits which will help prevent dental problems and keep our mouth feeling fresh. Your teeth will thank you! Here are our top 12 tips to get you started.
Let’s start with the tools of your practice – your toothbrush. Size does matter and so do bristles.
Choose a toothbrush size which comfortably fits your mouth. It should have soft to medium bristles to clean effectively without damaging the gums.
Electric toothbrushes are especially effective as they provide consistent pressure and thorough cleaning, making it easier to reach every corner of your mouth.
Brushing for less than two minutes often leaves parts of your teeth and gums uncleaned, increasing the risk of decay. If necessary, use a timer or download a toothbrushing app to make sure you are brushing for the full two minutes.
Twice-daily brushing is recommended. First thing in the morning to remove plaque and bacteria buildup overnight, and right before bed to remove any food particles or debris from meals throughout the day. That said, aim to wait at least 30 minutes after a meal to brush because your teeth need that time to build back the enamel that protects your teeth before you brush.
Yes, every day. Toothpaste TV ads in our childhood never taught us this, but flossing is part of the daily drill. It removes plaque and food particles that brushing can’t reach, particularly between teeth and along the gumline.
Leaving it there exposes your teeth to the risk of plaque build-up, leading to tooth decay, gum disease, and other complications. For larger gaps or hard-to-reach spaces, interdental brushes are a great alternative to ensure thorough cleaning.
Your tongue is a bacteria magnet. Its rough surface is covered in tiny bumps, or papillae, which trap food particles, bacteria, and dead cells. Over time, this buildup can lead to bad breath, tooth decay, and gum disease. Using a tongue scraper daily helps reduce the bacterial load in your mouth by removing the layer of debris, which toothbrushes often miss.
Mouthwash reduces bacteria in your mouth, fights gum disease, and freshens breath. Look for an alcohol-free formula that supports your enamel and oral health without causing dryness.
Your toothbrush works hard, but it doesn’t last forever. Over time, the bristles become frayed and less effective at cleaning your teeth and gums.
Replace your toothbrush or electric toothbrush head every 3-4 months, or sooner if the bristles look worn. Using an old toothbrush can also reintroduce bacteria into your mouth, undermining your efforts to maintain a clean and healthy smile.
A balanced diet is the foundation of strong teeth and gums. Foods rich in calcium and phosphorus, such as dairy products, leafy greens, and nuts, help fortify enamel. Vitamin C, found in fruits like oranges and strawberries, supports gum health by promoting collagen production.
Sugary and acidic foods are the nemesis of healthy teeth. When sugar interacts with bacteria in your mouth, it creates acid that erodes enamel, the protective outer layer of your teeth.
Over time, this leads to cavities and sensitivity. Acidic foods and drinks, like citrus fruits and sodas, can weaken enamel directly. Limiting these in your diet and following them up with water can reduce their effects.
Smoking and tobacco use wreak havoc on your oral health. They stain teeth, reduce saliva production, and increase the risk of gum disease and oral cancer.
Nicotine restricts blood flow to the gums, impairing their ability to heal and fight infections. Quitting is challenging but worthwhile – not just for your teeth, but for your overall well-being.
Staying hydrated isn’t just good for your body; it’s essential for your oral health too. Water helps wash away food particles and bacteria lingering in your mouth, preventing plaque buildup and bad breath.
Drinking water after meals is particularly beneficial, as it neutralises acids from food and beverages that can erode enamel. Saliva, your mouth’s natural defence system, needs water to stay at optimal levels.
A well-hydrated mouth produces saliva that combats bacteria and strengthens teeth with minerals like calcium and phosphate.
Regular check-ups allow your dentist to catch early signs of decay, gum disease, or oral cancer, helping you avoid pain and costly treatments. While brushing and flossing diligently at home is important, there are hidden corners of your mouth that only a professional eye can spot.
Professional cleanings during these check ups also help to remove stubborn plaque, keeping your smile bright and healthy. A visit every 6 months is recommended. Start the year by booking in your appointments now so that you don’t have to worry about fitting them into your growing busy schedule later.
If you grind your teeth or experience jaw pain, a custom mouthguard can protect your enamel and reduce discomfort. It’s a simple solution to prevent long-term damage.
If you play contact sports, a mouthguard is non-negotiable. This protective device shields your teeth, gums, and jaw from impact, preventing fractures, chips, and other injuries. Custom-fitted mouthguards from your dentist offer the best protection and comfort compared to over-the-counter options.
As you embark on a new year filled with hope and possibilities, make sure to prioritise your dental resolutions for a healthier 2025 – whether it is through regular dental check-ups, improved oral hygiene habits, or exploring cosmetic dentistry.
One way to stick to resolutions, is to let someone else help you keep accountable to them. That’s what our dentists are here for. Book in your regular appointments at one of our three locations and let us help you make 2025 the year of your radiant new smile.
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