5 New Year’s Resolutions for a Healthy Smile

2021 is drawing to a close. Did you achieve your resolutions this past year? Whether you resolve to work out more in the new year or to eat better, resolutions are a great way to set goals and make moves to take better care of yourself. So, why not make ones for your oral health? Read on for four New Year’s resolutions for a healthier smile.

#1: Visit the Dentist

Life can be unpredictable. From last-minute plans to emergencies, it isn’t always easy to remember to go to the dentist. Even so, use the new year to make a point of visiting your dentist. Not only is this an important part of maintaining good oral health, but it can also help you avoid problems in the future and save money on expensive restorative treatments.

#2: Do a Better Job of Brushing and Flossing

Everyone knows that brushing and flossing are key to maintaining good oral health at home, but how many people actually do it as often as they’re supposed to? If you don’t brush twice and floss at least once per day, now is the time to start. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to avoid scratching your enamel and fluoride toothpaste to strengthen your pearly whites against decay. Additionally, consider investing in a water flosser if traditional dental floss isn’t a good fit for you.

#3: Conquer Dry Mouth

Dry mouth can lead to a range of oral health issues, including higher plaque levels, tooth decay, gum disease, mouth sores, and a yeast infection in the mouth called oral thrush. To keep your mouth well moisturized, make sure to drink plenty of water. Chewing sugar-free gum, sucking on sugar-free hard candy, and eating crisp, fresh vegetables can also help you conquer dry mouth by increasing saliva production.

#4: Cut Out Tobacco

Smoking cigarettes sharply increases your chances of developing gum disease. It also makes you far more likely to get oral cancer and several other kinds of cancers. Eliminate smoking or your use of any other tobacco products to lessen your chances of developing these serious health issues.

#5: Brighten Your Smile

Drinks like coffee, tea, cola, dark juices, and red wine may be delicious, but they can leave unsightly stains on your smile. Consider cutting back on these beverages to lessen dental discoloration. Additionally, you could drink them through a straw to limit the contact they have with your pearly whites. If you’re interested in removing or covering up existing stains, ask your dentist what options they have available.

It’s never too late to start taking care of your smile! By setting New Year’s resolutions to show your pearly whites the love they deserve, you’ll be able to maintain excellent oral health and a smile you can’t help but brag about!

About the Practice

Led by Dr. Frank Rubal and Dr. Jodie Rubal, their hard-working team at Rubal Dentistry is here to help the residents of Azle and the surrounding communities achieve their oral health goals. Whether you’re a new patient or an existing one, they will welcome you into their warm, inviting office with open arms and make sure you feel comfortable and confident in the care you’re receiving. Are you interested in learning more about their many service offerings or setting up an appointment? If so, visit Rubal Dentistry’s website or call their office at (817) 444-2585 to start your smile journey.