The new year is upon us, which means that it’s time to take stock of what needs to change. If you’re looking for a resolution that could help you look and feel your best, you might think about making a change that could improve your oral health.
Thankfully, this doesn’t have to be difficult—there are a few small things you could do that could make a big difference in how your teeth look. Here are just some examples.
Commit to Brushing Twice a Day
This may sound simple, but a surprising number of people don’t consistently brush their teeth twice a day. If you’re one of them, you aren’t alone—when surveyed, around 30% of millennials admitted that they brush once a day for the most part, and many go as much as 48 hours without brushing at all.
Your toothbrush is an essential tool in fighting plaque. It’s the single most important thing you can do to keep gum disease and tooth decay at bay, so if you make it a point to do it twice a day, your teeth will be much better off this time next year.
Start Flossing
Even if you master brushing, it’s likely that you aren’t dealing with all the plaque in your mouth. A staggering amount of it grows between the teeth, which is why it’s important to floss every single day.
Not everyone is a fan of dental floss, so if you’d prefer a less finicky alternative, you might try using interdental brushes or floss threaders. These can both make cleaning between your teeth considerably easier and do the job just as well.
See Your Dentist Biannually
Unfortunately, there’s a certain amount of plaque that you aren’t going to be able to handle on your own. There are several locations in the mouth that can’t be reached except by a dental professional.
That’s why regular preventive care is essential. Dentists recommended having your teeth cleaned professionally twice a year, and if you have dental insurance, you may be able to get this care at no out-of-pocket charge.
About Our Practice
At Cosmetic & Family Dentistry of Weatherford, we’re proud to be a part of a long tradition of dental excellence. We have been serving our community for over 60 years, and each day Dr. Garrett Mulkey, Dr. Ashley Decker, and Dr. Deborah Romack come to work ready to maintain the standards of excellence that have earned the trust of our thousands of patients.
If you have any questions about smile-healthy habits, we can be reached at our website or by phone at (817) 594-3806.