Oral Health Resolutions You Can Start for the New Year

Dentist Blog

2018 is ending and with it comes a time for you to make some new year's resolutions for your health, which don't always need to be about a new gym membership or losing a few pounds. Why not make some of your best resolutions to improve your oral health? Here are some recommendations to help you keep your teeth and oral health in tip-top shape.

Be Proactive with Dental Visits

Some people rely on their dentist only when they are in excruciating pain from dental issues, and make an appointment as a reactive option to get treatment. When you only go to the dentist when you experience oral problems, you are missing out on the benefits of having a great family dentist. Instead, be proactive to set and make regular visits with your dentist.

If you have insurance coverage, check your dental insurance policy to find out what it covers. Most dental coverage provides you with two dental cleanings and check-ups every calendar year, which allows you to get in a dental check-up every six months. With dental insurance, your out-of-pocket costs are minimal to have your dentist check your mouth for cavities and other issues, and remove tartar from your teeth that can build up.

Talk to your dentist if you have health conditions, such as diabetes, for example, or a high risk of dental disease if you smoke, as these may require you to have more frequent check-ups. Your dentist may also want to check and clean your teeth more frequently if you are pregnant, have a weakened immune system, or already have gum disease.

When you see your dentist every few months, they can keep a close eye on your oral health and make suggestions for you to improve it. For example, your dental hygienist can find and point out to your problem areas on your teeth that may have a build-up of plaque due to poor brushing habits. Or if you have been brushing your teeth too aggressively and your teeth have begun to lose enamel, your dental hygienist can teach you how to brush to prevent damage but still get your teeth clean.

Do Your Part at Home

Once you have been to your dentist for your regular check-up and cleaning, it is essential that you do all you can to keep your teeth clean until your next visit. Twenty-three percent of Americans have skipped brushing their teeth for two or more days in the past year, but you don't need to be a part of this statistic. Tooth-brushing only needs to take a couple of minutes of your time in the morning and evening and can remove bacteria and plaque from your mouth that causes oral decay and bad breath.

Alongside regular brushing, you can implement a few natural methods to prevent gum disease and oral decay. One way is with a process called oil pulling, which cleans your teeth and mouth of toxins and bacteria. Swish one tablespoon of coconut oil inside your mouth for up to 20 minutes while the oil traps toxins, then spit it into the trash. This process has been known to reduce mouth inflammation, gingivitis, and plaque, and eliminate bad breath as a result.

It is also helpful to avoid eating foods that contain high amounts of sugar, such as candy. But if you do need a sweet fix, eat licorice, as it contains compounds that help kill bacteria in your mouth that lead to tooth decay. You can also apply a small amount of turmeric to your toothbrush, add some water, and use it to brush onto your teeth every few days. The turmeric contains anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that can improve your teeth and gums.

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26 November 2018

Getting Your Toddler to the Dentist Once and For All

Toddlers should see a dentist for the first time by the age of twelve months or by the time their first tooth comes in. But if you are a parent with toddlers anything like mine, the prospect of going to the dentist (let alone anywhere!) can be pretty intimidating. My kids were a handful growing up. They had tantrums any time we would have to sit in a waiting room, and they refused to get in the dentist's chair during their first few visits. So, I had to employ a professional to help me make the transition to finally getting them in that dental chair without all the screaming and crying. I know I'm not the only parent in this situation, so I decided to share the information I've learned with others who can use a little help. You can find all my advice right here on these pages!