New Year’s Resolutions for A Healthy Smile

By Dr. Ricardo S. Bocanegra, DDS

A new Year, new you! There’s no better way to solve dental issues by avoiding them in the first place so why not include your oral health in your list of resolutions for this new year. After all, with the cost of dental care on the rise, prevention is key to savings!

The New Year is an opportunity to make positive changes in your life and your dental health is no exception. Establishing a habit of visiting the dentist for regular check ups and periodontal cleanings will benefit your overall health. By enhancing your oral care routine, avoiding harmful behaviors, and making balanced dietary choices, you’ll be making a huge impact on your long-term dental health.

Helpful tip: Consistency is key when it comes to establishing new habits.

Power Up Your Habits
With practice as part of your normal routine, a widely-avoided activity like flossing your teeth can evolve from a low point in your day to something you enjoy. As you clean between your teeth and brush regularly, you may surprise yourself by observing that your gums become less sensitive, you bleed less, and you enjoy the unique feeling of a fresh smile.

Proper dental care is easier than you may imagine because the simple choices you make can cause profound changes to your oral health. Here are a few habits that are beneficial:
. Gently brush for two minutes twice a day using a soft-bristled toothbrush to avoid damaging your enamel.
. When using a toothbrush, hold it at a 45-degree angle to your gumline and clean each surface of your teeth.
. Use a toothpaste with fluoride to help keep your teeth healthy.
. Thoroughly clean between your teeth once a day.
. You can use a flossing device, floss, or an interdental brush—whatever you feel most comfortable using!
. Rinse using mouthwash or an antiseptic mouthrinse after brushing.

Practicing your oral care routine twice a day will have a profound effect on your mouth’s health. However, there are a few more important steps to take to ensure your oral care isn’t suffering in other areas. Keep reading below for more ideas for other changes you can make.

Healthier Dietary Choices
Your diet is crucial when it comes to keeping your smile in top shape. What you eat can become food for bacteria in your mouth and potentially contribute to cavities, gum disease, and other conditions.

Steps to choose a healthier diet may include:
. Limit your consumption of sugary or acidic foods and beverages
. Reduce snacking between meals
. Rinse with water after meals or sugary drinks
. Aim to eat lots of fruits, vegetables, and other items packed with nutrients
. Talk to your dental or medical professional to ensure your diet includes enough vitamins and nutrients to keep your teeth strong

Dental Restorations and Orthodontics
Today is the perfect time to address any dental problems requiring your attention, like an improper bite, damaged tooth, or cavity. Your dental professional can recommend the appropriate restoration to potentially treat the underlying cause of your concern, prevent future problems, and improve your smile’s appearance at the same time!

Say No To Dry Mouth
Your saliva has a vital function in maintaining the health of your teeth, gums, and mouth. It provides the enamel of your teeth with minerals, neutralizes the pH level (also known as acidity), and helps wash away food matter and debris. Dry mouth leads to many oral health problems.

You can reduce dry mouth by incorporating these practices:
. Chew sugar-free gum to promote saliva production
. Consume milk or dairy products to increase saliva production
. Avoid excessive alcohol consumption or using illegal drugs that can cause dry mouth
. Ask your medical or dental professional if any over-the-counter or prescription medications you’re taking may be associated with decreased saliva production
. Stay hydrated by drinking water regularly, especially before bed
. Quit Tobacco Products
. Tobacco stains your teeth and increase your risk of many dental problems.

Routine Dental Visits
We recommend visiting your dental professional at least twice a year or every six months. The best way to prevent dental issues in their tracks is to detect them early or stop them from happening in the first place. Regular visits to your dentist will help ensure that no dental issues go unnoticed or worsen to something more serious and more costly.

A positive step is to budget for regular dental visits and save money if any unforeseen injuries or dental visits occur. A small cost of maintenance and regular visits upfront will help prevent issues that can be far more expensive in the long run. Our office offers a dental Saving plan that helps you save money in preventative and restorative services. Call our office at 239-482-8806 for more information on how we can make your new year’s resolution affordable and get you up to date with your oral health!

Porto Fino Dental
6805 Porto Fino Cir., Fort Myers, Fl 33912

239-482-8806
www.portofinodental.org