Most everybody has made New Year’s Resolutions at one time or another. Even though our intentions are good and the resolutions are usually well thought out, all too often we do not stick to them. But here is one that is both easy and can make a huge difference in your life.
In 2016 you can make your life more enjoyable and pain-free by making (and sticking to) some easy dental care resolutions. Taking care of your teeth is vital to a happy smile and pain-free, comfortable teeth and gums make it possible for you to devote all of your attention on other important things in your life.
According to Dr. Fulmer, there are four basic resolutions you should make regarding the care of your teeth:
1. Commit to a regular schedule of brushing AND FLOSSING! Too many people think brushing alone will result in clean, healthy teeth and gums. Unfortunately, flossing is just as important to avoiding tooth decay, gum-related problems and many other painful yet avoidable dental issues.
Be sure to learn how to brush correctly. Get the proper brush based on your dentist’s recommendation of what is best for your teeth. If you have sensitive teeth, be sure to purchase toothpaste that is designed specifically not to wear off additional enamel.
You should brush at least twice a day – preferably in the morning and just before going to bed. Each time you brush, follow it up with a thorough flossing. If you have a meal where you know your teeth have captured a great deal of food, don’t hesitate to pause for a break to floss midday as well. Get that food out of your mouth before it starts to deteriorate and take your teeth with it!
2. Adjust your diet. Cut back on sugar as much as possible. Sugar is one of the major causes of tooth decay.
A diet rich in fruits and vegetables will help you build strong teeth and will help you with other diet-related resolutions you may have made as well. Bad nutrition is a major contributing factor to periodontal disease.
Excessive use of alcohol can also result in issues related to tooth decay. Studies have found that heavy drinkers, many of whom also smoke, are more likely to neglect basic dental care.
3. Speaking of smoking, just quit. Many people have already overcome this habit but there are still those who are struggling with it. In addition to the other many well-documented health issues that smoking causes, add periodontal disease to the list. Smokers have worse “pocketing” and more cavities than their non-smoking counterparts. Just another reason to finally give it up.
4. Visit your dentist regularly. Cleanings should be scheduled every six months. Issues that arise in the interim should be scheduled and addressed as soon as you are aware of them. You can begin the process by contacting Fulmer Dentistry!
Dr. Fulmer is eager to help you get off to the right start in 2016. He takes great pride in seeing all those happy smiles in Kenosha and Paddock Lake. He knows that you always want the best, pain-free dental care you can possibly get. Make a “happy smile resolution” this year and contact us today.