It’s the start of a brand-new year! For sure, many of you have made a new set of New Year’s resolutions for 2020, and becoming healthier is probably at the top of most everyone’s list. Some might be planning on eating a more balanced diet. Others have promised themselves to cut back on smoking. Some want to hit the gym more regularly.
These resolutions are well and good. But if you’re wondering what you can still do to live healthier, don’t forget about your oral health as it significantly contributes to your overall health. Here are three practical things you can do for your oral health this year:
Have regular dental visits
Many people tend to visit their dentists only when the need arises (when they’re experiencing prolonged unbearable toothache!). Are you one of these people? Well, don’t be. You should go to your dentist at least twice a year even if you don’t have oral health issues. Regular dental checkups will help keep your teeth and gums healthy, which in turn can prevent oral health problems, such as tooth decay and gingivitis.
And if you do already have a dental issue that you don’t even know about, your dentist will be able to spot the problem and provide treatment before the condition worsens. Just be sure, though, that you go to a highly reputable dental clinic like those in Upland for your regular checkups and, if need be, for procedures like filling, root canal, and extractions.
Use proper cleaning techniques
Say you regularly brush your teeth, floss, and use mouthwash. But are you sure you’re doing these things the right way? Yes, brushing, flossing, and rinsing sound simple, but there’s a proper way to do them. For example, when brushing your teeth, you need to position your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to your gum line and make small circular and back-and-forth strokes for about two minutes. Plus, to retain fluoride from your toothpaste, you shouldn’t rinse your mouth after spitting out the toothpaste. And like brushing, there are also techniques for flossing and using mouthwash.
Buy the right oral care products
Do you think that there’s one toothbrush, toothpaste, floss, or mouthwash that trumps all other products? The answer is no, so don’t believe the advertisements saying that this is the best toothpaste, floss, or whatnot. Determining the right dental product for you depends on your needs and your comfort.
When choosing a mouthwash, for instance, choose an alcohol-free breath-freshening rinse if you hate the burning sensation when gargling and if you need the mouthwash to prevent bad breath. To ensure you’re buying a safe and effective oral care product, however, always look for the American Dental Association Seal of Acceptance and, of course, ask your dentist for advice regarding the appropriateness of a dental product for you.
Strive for Great Oral Health in 2020
Becoming a healthier version of yourself is a fabulous New Year’s resolution. And you’ll be a step closer to achieving this if you’ll make it a point to take better care of your oral health. Have a happy and healthy 2020, everyone!
