{"id":540,"date":"2018-11-18T16:53:30","date_gmt":"2018-11-18T16:53:30","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.jbdentist.com\/blog\/?p=540"},"modified":"2023-07-17T17:25:40","modified_gmt":"2023-07-17T17:25:40","slug":"dentist-offers-4-new-year-resolutions-protect-mouth","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.jbdentist.com\/blog\/2018\/11\/18\/dentist-offers-4-new-year-resolutions-protect-mouth\/","title":{"rendered":"A Dentist Offers 4 New Year Resolutions to Protect Your Mouth!"},"content":{"rendered":"

\"AWhen people make resolutions for the new year, it\u2019s typical that they don\u2019t quite meet their goal. One of the main reasons they don\u2019t follow through with resolutions is because they take on too much at once. Completely transforming a diet or daily routine doesn\u2019t happen in a day, it takes time. If you\u2019re looking for an effective way to improve your health without that much effort, oral health is a great place to start!<\/p>\n

To help you get started, here are 4 resolutions from a dentist<\/a>.<\/p>\n

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Commit To Routine Oral Hygiene<\/h2>\n

An overwhelming amount of your oral hygiene is performed at home, not in a dental office. While dental visits are important, it is crucial to maintain a consistent oral care routine to remove plaque and cavity-causing bacteria throughout the day. Brush for at least two minutes at a time twice a day and use a fluoridated toothpaste to do so. Floss at least once a day, ideally before bed, to remove plaque from the sides of teeth and near the gum pockets. This small commitment can make a huge difference in your long-term oral health.<\/p>\n

For additional protection, consider using a fluoridated mouthwash to protect and strengthen enamel. Make sure to do it after brushing to prevent accidentally removing the protective layer the mouthwash provides.<\/p>\n

Reduce Your Sweets and Opt for Mouth-Friendly Foods<\/h2>\n

It\u2019s a common resolution to eat better in the new year, but doing so won\u2019t only improve your overall health. Eating a more balanced diet free of artificial sugar and other harmful additives can do your teeth and gums a big favor. When adjusting your diet, take note of the amount of sugar and starch you consume, as these two ingredients are the main contributors to cavity production. Increase the amount of vegetables, fruits, dairy products and whole grains in your daily meals so you can reap valuable nutrients and minerals that promote healthy teeth and gums. Avoid snacking on foods throughout the day. Regarding oral health, the amount of time you expose your mouth to harmful foods is more relevant than the amount you consume.<\/p>\n

Stop Using Tobacco Products<\/h2>\n

Quitting tobacco is hardly an easy feat. That\u2019s why planning ahead for your quit date and speaking with your general doctor can really help. To quit, make sure to remove all tobacco products and ashtrays from your house, tell friends and family about your quit date, begin taking nicotine replacement therapy (if you plan too) and schedule time for any support groups you\u2019d like to attend. When a craving appears, keep your mind busy, sip water and take deep breaths to delay cravings.<\/p>\n

Attend Regular Dental Appointments<\/h2>\n

By visiting the dentist just once every six months, you can confirm many important factors regarding your oral and overall health. These include:<\/p>\n