New Year’s is the time when everyone is in a frenzy to make their resolutions and promises for the upcoming year. While it’s noble to resolve to get a new job or start eating healthy, don’t discount the smaller, more attainable, goals that have a high chance of being met with success all year long. This year, vow to improve your oral health.
Check out these New Year’s resolutions to make for your teeth as 2025 approaches. Your dentist in Piedmont CA can help you achieve those goals.
In 2025, resolve to:
Brush Longer
Brushing for two whole minutes is the standard protocol recommended by dental professionals. However, if you’re like many people, you only brush for a fraction of that time. You may not realize just how long two minutes is. To remedy that, set a timer on your phone or electric toothbrush so you don’t skimp. Another tip: hum the Jeopardy! theme song four times. It’s 30 seconds long so be sure to hum it for each of the four quadrants in your mouth.
Floss Every Day
Many people tell their dentist they floss but they don’t. It’s easy to forget, but take the new year as a perfect opportunity to floss more. Upping your flossing game will give you fresher breath, to be sure, plus is will reduce your risk of gum disease and tooth decay.
Keep in mind that if you’re not used to flossing, your gums may bleed. In that cause, build up a routine slowly by flossing every other day and then slowly increasing the frequency.
Stay Away From Foods That Stain
Stained teeth look unsightly, which can in turn damage your self-confidence as well. Teeth whitening is certainly an option, but if you don’t change your habits, the stains will just come back. Steer clear of soda, wine, chocolate, coffee, dark beer, tea, and berries. Use a straw if you do consume those beverages, and brush your teeth if you do eat one of these forbidden snacks.
Use an Electric Toothbrush
If you’re still using a manual toothbrush, it’s time to kick things into high gear and invest in an electric toothbrush in 2025. Not only does the electric version do a better job of keeping your teeth clean, they come with built-in timers so you can brush for two minutes without guessing.
Drink More Water
Stay hydrated for better oral hygiene. Why? Dry mouths don’t produce enough saliva to cleanse your teeth of bacteria, which in turn ups the risk of cavities and bad breath. Put a reusable water bottle on your Christmas list and refill it throughout the day. Get one that pairs with an app to remind you to drink.
Stop Smoking
Still smoking? Stopping this habit is a valid New Year’s resolution in its own right. But in addition to improving your overall physical and lung health, it can improve your oral health as well. That’s because neglect not only makes it more challenging to qualify for dental implants, it boosts the risk of gum disease and tooth loss.
Get Enough Calcium
As you know, you need plenty of calcium for strong bones and teeth. When you consume enough calcium, the roots of your teeth will become stronger so they can remain secure in your gums. To achieve this, consume more yogurt, cheese, and milk. If dairy isn’t really your thing, reach for the broccoli, tofu, and almonds. A dietary supplement taken once a day is also a good idea.
Use a Tongue Scraper
Bacteria can build up on your teeth, creating plaque that accumulates between taste buds on your tongue. You have to physically remove that trapped bacteria, along with food debris and dead skin cells. Sure, you could brush your tongue with your regular toothbrush, but a tongue scraper will do a much better job at removing buildup.
Rinse With Mouthwash
While no substitute for flossing and brushing, mouthwash can benefit your oral health. Not only does it prevent gingivitis and gum disease, it reduces plaque buildup. Rinsing your teeth with mouthwash washes away food particles that you missed with your toothbrush. Just be sure to grab a mouthwash that contains fluoride and antiseptics.
Visit the Dentist Regularly
See your dentist every six months for exams and cleanings to remove cavity-causing tartar and plaque. Regular visits also increase the likelihood of early detection of gingivitis or gum disease. Plus, routine dental visits make it easier to detect and manage symptoms while reversing damage. So if you have gotten lax about those appointments, use the new year as an excuse to get back on track.
Book Your Dental Appointment For 2025
Get ahead of things and schedule your teeth cleaning for the new year. It’s easy to book your appointment; just call our trusted team at Piedmont Oaks Dental in Piedmont CA today at (510) 654-6523.