2017 is almost upon us! Many of us make New Year resolutions to help get back on track towards goals or commitments that we have neglected throughout the previous year. The new year provides a great time for you and your family to make resolutions towards improving your oral hygiene routine.
As a Tacoma family dentistry, we take pride in providing in comprehensive, holistic care for South Sound families. Our team at Plancich Dental share our top resolution ideas to help you and your family start the new year off right. Say goodbye to the bad habits of 2016 and say hello to a beautiful, healthy smile.
Brushing and flossing at least twice a day: Delta Dental estimates that more than 30% of Americans aren’t brushing enough. In addition, the average person brushes for just under the two minutes recommended by dental professionals.
Many of us keep our cell phones or smart phones nearby at all times. We suggest setting up a daily alert to remind you to brush at least twice a day. After a few weeks, you’ll be in a consistent routine that feels like second nature. Consider keeping a few extra toothbrushes for you and your family in your travel bag or diaper bag to help keep a consistent brushing routine when you’re away from home.
Limiting sweets and treats: One of the most popular New Year’s resolution is to eat healthier. Nielsen reports that 37% of Americans made a resolution to stay fit and healthy for the year 2015. While we all want to improve our physical appearance, eating healthy will also improve your dental health. Eating a diet full of vitamin-rich foods, such as leafy greens, vegetables, and cheese will help preserve your enamel and allow you to absorb the calcium that your teeth needs.
Sweets, starchy foods, and sodas and fruit juices contain processed sugars or acids that can destroy enamel and cause tooth decay over time. Make a family commitment to eat these items in moderation and brush and/or rinse your mouth after consuming. You should also limit the amount of teeth-staining beverages you consume, such as wine and coffee.
Schedule a dentist appointment twice a year: The new year is the perfect time to complete recommended dental work or cosmetic dentistry procedures, if you had put it off in 2016. Crowns, implants, and fillings help preserve tooth structure and maintain proper tooth alignment. If you are interested in veneers, teeth whitening, or other teeth bleaching procedures, contact our office for more information.
We highly recommend you and your family make bi-annual visits to Plancich Dental for thorough teeth cleanings and comprehensive dental check-ups. Regular dental visits will ensure that the oral health is up to par and there are no impending dental issues to be aware of. Contact us now to schedule you and your family’s next dental appointment in 2017.
From all of us at Plancich Dental, we hope you have a wonderful, safe, and teeth-friendly New Year!