Top 5 New Year’s Resolutions for teeth

Many of us will have New Year’s resolutions to lose weight, perhaps get more social, or cut down on drinking or smoking, but have you ever thought of committing a resolution to your teeth?

Now can be as good a time as any to implement changes to your teeth cleaning and oral regime. Perhaps you didn’t feel you did enough during 2017, or like most of us lapsed over Christmas?  Read our guide to get some inspiration on how a healthy mouth can make a healthy new year.

It is firstly important to note that some of these steps are probably things you have seen, heard or read before, along with the chance that you know a lot of it already. It is as we start the New Year, a good time to reinforce positive behaviours to try and make a difference to health.

* If you haven’t visited the dentist in a while, make January your commitment to do so. Everyone needs a comprehensive check-up which can save a lot of time, hassle and money in the longer run. Schedule this is in such a way that is easier for you so it helps to fit in with your routine making it more likely you will adhere to the appointment.

* The importance of flossing. Many people erroneously think that brushing teeth is enough when in reality; this is only half the job. As dentists we can’t stress enough the importance of flossing. If you don’t undertake this as part of your normal dental routine, do so in January and notice the difference it will make by the end of the month. Remember that flossing is not like brushing – within reason it can be done on the go, so keep some flossing tape in your pocket or by your desk to make it easier to commit to doing.

* Our next top tip may help if you are committing to losing weight also – cut back on sugar. The link between sugar and tooth decay is well proved, documented and accepted. Cutting down on sugar can dramatically improve your oral health aswell as having the positive effect on the waistline too. Watch the amount of sugary drinks consumed and make a gradual commitment to reduce these as going ‘cold turkey’ is virtually impossible for many people.

* The next resolution you can make, which will also have a double effect, is to cut down or give up smoking. The obvious benefits for overall health are widely known, but did you know that smoking impacts oral health too? Gum disease is a big problem for smokers which can be precarious for teeth. Set small, realistic and achievable goals with respect to cutting down on smoking. Any change is progress and chances are with the range of help available you’ll be able to quit in no time, however we appreciate that this is not easy.

* Aswell as cutting back on sugar, making general dietary changes can do wonders to improve your oral health. Look to increase the amount of calcium you put into your diet this January and beyond – this is the building blocks for good teeth. Foods high in water content are also good for the teeth and gums, as they help to remove plaque and promote saliva.

Adopt some of these changes, give it a few weeks and you will start to notice a difference which can only having a lasting benefit for your health. Good luck and Happy New Year!

To talk to us about any dental related issue, see our contact details by visiting our contact us page.