If you have a love/hate relationship with New Year’s resolutions, you’re not alone. On one hand, they’re a great way to make healthy, positive changes that will pay off all year. On the other hand, many people quickly “lose steam” and wind up giving up by February! One of the most common resolutions is to get in shape, but, this year, why not make 5 mini-resolutions that will get your smile in better shape? You can start using these tips right away to help you smile with more confidence and also minimize the amount of major dental work you need from a dentist in Atlanta. Keep reading to learn more!

1. Schedule a Checkup

It goes without saying that preventing oral health problems is much easier than spending time in the dental chair having them corrected. Regular checkups are one of the best preventive tools because they allow a dentist to find and treat any problems when they’re small.

For example, a small cavity can be treated with a simple filling instead of a dental crown or root canal. Your checkups also include important screenings for things like oral cancer and gum disease.

2. Eat More Mouth-Healthy Foods

It’s always a good idea to cut out some of the sugar from your diet, but this resolution focuses on what you can add to improve your oral health. Here are a few ideas:

  • Fibrous, crunchy foods that naturally clean your teeth and gums such as celery and apples.
  • Dairy products such as cheese, milk, and yogurt.
  • In general, fruits and vegetables are anti-inflammatory, which will improve your gum health.
  • Likewise, green tea has anti-oxidants that are great for keeping your mouth healthy.

3. Use a Few Flossing Tricks

Flossing is an important habit that many people struggle with. To make it easier, start small and set realistic goals like flossing 3-4 times a week – then increase your frequency from there.

Also, many people find it difficult to floss right before bed because they’re so tired. If you can relate, try doing it right after dinner or even lunch instead.

4. Make On-the-Go Oral Hygiene Easy

You can’t always brush after each meal, but you can do some simple things to keep your teeth and gums clean. First, chewing sugar-free gum reduces your risk of cavities because it stimulates salivary flow and counteracts the acids that cause tooth decay.

If you don’t have any gum, try swishing with water several times to rinse away the sugars and acids in your mouth after a meal or snack.

5. Use the Right Tools

Finding the right tools can make a huge difference and make your hygiene routine easier and more effective. First, you might consider electric toothbrushes, which are available at every price point and are almost guaranteed to do a better job than a manual.

There are also interdental brushes, floss picks and oral irrigators (which are especially helpful if you have gum disease, dental crowns or a bridge).

These 5 mini-resolutions are easy to stick with and will help you have your healthiest smile yet in 2019!

About the Author

As a general, restorative and cosmetic dentist in Atlanta, Dr. Marilyn Gaylor combines many years of experience with extensive advanced training to provide outstanding dentistry. She knows that a healthy smile equals a beautiful smile and always focuses on prevention to help her patients achieve great oral health. If you have any other questions about your oral health, she can be reached via her website.