New Year’s resolutions don’t have to be only about losing weight and getting exercise. All year, every year should be about maintaining a healthy weight and getting a proper amount of exercise, but the New Year is a great time to resolve to pay more attention to your oral hygiene. After all, your mouth is connected to your body and if your mouth is not in good health your body won’t be either. Here are some tips for maintaining better oral hygiene for the upcoming new year.
Oral Hygiene Tips
One very easy tip is simply to replace your toothbrush this New Year. The American Dental Association recommends that you replace your toothbrush every three months. Brushing with a worn toothbrush is not as effective and your toothbrush can accumulate food debris, bacteria, and plaque. You should also replace your toothbrush after any illness. Other tips include:
- 2 x 2: The recommended amount of time to brush is 2 minutes at a time, twice a day. Most people do not brush even close to two minutes, so really try to boost your brushing time this new year.
- Floss: Only about 30 percent of the American population floss daily, even though daily flossing is recommended to keep your mouth healthy and keep periodontal disease (the major cause of tooth loss) at bay.
- Chew gum: But make sure it is sugarless. It has been found that chewing sugarless gum for 20 minutes after each meal can help prevent tooth decay.
- Eat healthy: Eat a balanced diet, and limit snacks between meals.
- Drink fluoridated water: Fluoride has been proven to help prevent cavities. However, most bottled waters do not have fluoride.
- Dental visits: Visit your dentist bi-annually for professional checkups and cleanings.