Happy New Year from all of us here at Dr. Rick Dentistry! With another year around the corner, now is the perfect opportunity to treat your smile to new resolutions. Here are some things you can do to improve your oral health and help maintain a healthy and bright smile for many years to come!

Brush Your Teeth Regularly

Brushing your teeth at least twice a day for at least two minutes each time will help remove plaque and food debris, leaving your teeth looking clean and bright. You'll also lower the risk of tooth decay, periodontal (gum) disease, and bad breath.

Make sure to use a soft-bristled brush or an electric toothbrush to clean your teeth. Overzealous brushing or using a hard-bristled toothbrush can cause tooth enamel erosion or receding gums, leaving your smile with long-term damage. You'll need to replace your toothbrush every three months or sooner if the bristles are frayed.

Floss Every Day

Many people don't realize the importance of daily flossing. This practice is the only way to remove food debris and plaque from between your teeth before it hardens to tartar. If you have dental work or if your gums are sensitive or inflamed, a water pick may be a good alternative for you. Flossing helps lower the risk of tooth decay, cavities, and gum disease. However, it is not a substitute for regular tooth brushing.

Don't Forget to Clean Your Tongue

Just like your teeth and gums, your tongue can house harmful oral bacteria if not cleaned daily. For the best results, consider purchasing a tongue scraper. That will help rid you of harmful bacteria and help combat bad breath.

Rinse with Mouthwash

Adding mouthwash to your daily dental health regimen is another layer of defense against harmful oral bacteria. Mouthwash can get into every nook and cranny in your teeth and soft tissues, cleaning areas your toothbrush can't reach. While mouthwash enhances your oral health, it is no substitute for regular brushing and flossing.

Steer Away from Tobacco Products

Using tobacco products in any form is a leading cause of oral and lung cancer. It can also wreak havoc on your oral health. Smokers often have stained teeth, bad breath, and are at an elevated risk of gum disease, weakened teeth, and slower healing. Quitting the use of tobacco products is one of the best things you can do for your oral and overall health!

Consume a Balanced, Nutritious Diet

Eating right is important for both your dental and overall health. Poor nutrition can impact your immune system, increasing your risk of developing infections, including gum disease. Make sure you eat plenty of fruits and vegetables because they are rich in antioxidants, which help combat bacteria and inflammation, protecting your teeth and gums. Moreover, chewing on crisp raw foods such as apples, celery, and carrots can help remove plaque and freshen your breath.

Maintain Regular Dental Exams and Cleanings

Make sure you maintain your twice-a-year dental exams and cleanings to keep dental disease at bay. Our team at Dr. Rick Dentistry will monitor your oral health and address any concerns as they arise. Moreover, we will recommend any preventive procedures needed to keep your smile in tip-top shape.

New Year, New Smile!

Dr. Rick and his team at Dr. Rick Dentistry invite you to make a new year’s resolution to treat your smile the way it deserves. Maintain meticulous oral hygiene practices, quit smoking, improve your diet, and schedule your routine dental exams and cleanings! We look forward to supporting your oral health every step of the way! Call us and schedule your appointment today!