5 Dental Habits to Start the Year

SMILE! It’s time for another family photo. Are you showing off your pearly whites, or just grinning without teeth? If you’re not satisfied with your smile or dental health, take this New Year as a fresh start to take care of your teeth and gums. Start with these five easy dental habits.

1.       Be consistent with brushing. Don’t laugh—this seems like an obvious habit but it’s often overlooked or, even better, performed poorly. Brushing teeth two to three times a day, especially in the morning and before going to bed, can help prevent cavities and promote healthy gums. But did you know there is such a thing as over brushing?

Adding too much pressure to teeth as you brush or brushing too hard in one particular motion in one spot can be a factor in causing gums to recede and exposing the nerve of the tooth. This can create uncomfortable or painful sensitivity to hot or cold extremes. Using a soft-bristled brush, toothpaste for sensitive teeth and more gently, circular motions may help prevent these sensitivities. Similarly, as technology advances, electric toothbrushes can automate or dictate when and where to brush to prevent over brushing.

2.       Don’t be flakey with flossing. Regular flossing is a CRUCIAL aspect of dental health that most often gets a bad rap. It takes time, it feels weird and may cause gums to bleed when not done regularly. When performed on a daily basis, however, flossing feels comfortable (or even good!), easy and just part of your regular routine. Breaking up chains of bacteria between the teeth is essential for gum health and prevents plaque and tartar from forming.If flossing isn’t comfortable or accessible to you, talk with your dentist about other interdental cleaners and how to use them. 

3.       Commit to fresh breath. Don’t reach for the breath mint when you need to freshen your breath—instead, reach for the brush! After you brush your teeth, brushing or scraping the tongue removes plaque and bacteria that contributes to bad breath. Some toothbrushes have a rough surface on the back of the head that can be used to clean the tongue. Many drug stores or health food stores carry tonguescrapers. 

4.       …and reconsider the effect of diet on dental health. You’re likely aware of the health effects of the foods and drinks you consume. Maintaining a healthy diet rich in fresh fruits and vegetables, lean protein, low-fat dairy and whole grains affects your dental health, too. More studies show that the mouth is a “window” into the body’s overall health and often dental health will reveal changes that are linked or related to systemic diseases or conditions.

5.       Make time for maintenance. Regular flossing and brushing are excellent habits to maintain and great steps toward achieving optimal dental health. However, getting a routine professional cleaning and check up with your dentist can catch any problems before they become more significant, painful or damaging. Mark your appointment on the calendar—and get ready for a more confident, clean, healthy smile!

Patrick Toms DMD is a leading Gainesville family dentist who offers affordable procedures for common dental problems including an infected tooth.