Consider an Oral Care Resolution in 2019 from a Dentist in Richardson

Sometimes when people are making resolutions, it can be difficult to follow through on them. Losing a large amount of weight or committing to a new diet or exercise routine can be tough, and when you don’t meet your own goals it can lead to disappointment. While this fear should not prevent you from trying to meet them anyway, there are other resolutions you can consider as well.

In some cases, these resolutions from a dentist in Richardson can pair well with your health goals of 2019. Take a moment to learn how they can benefit your oral and even overall health in the process!

Consume Less Sugar

While it’s important that you reduce your sugar intake overall for health reasons, making sure you don’t snack on sugary sweets is particularly important for your oral health. This is because the risk for tooth decay goes up when your mouth is constantly exposed to sugar-filled food and beverages. The next time you have a craving for sweets, opt for sugar-free gum instead. This keeps saliva production high, which promotes remineralization of tooth enamel and washes away loose food debris and bacteria.

Introduce Mouth-Friendly Foods to Your Diet

Once you’ve cut down on sugar, it’s good to start thinking about which foods to incorporate into your new diet. The good news is many foods that are good for your overall health are also beneficial for your teeth and gums. For example, dairy products are high in calcium and therefore good for your bones. However, they also contain casein, a protein which coats teeth and temporarily protects them from plaque acids. Fibrous vegetables contain essential vitamins and minerals, but also work to scrub away food debris and plaque from the teeth and gums.

Drop Your Smoking Habit for Good

Dropping all tobacco use is a no-brainer when it comes to health resolutions. Doing so will also work to prevent bad breath, reduce your risk for gum disease, and help you avoid yellow teeth. If you aren’t sure which option to quit smoking is right for you, speak with your general doctor for guidance.

Pick Up a Flossing Habit

Brushing twice a day with fluoridated toothpaste is crucial for at-home care, however it isn’t enough to prevent all dental disease. Plaque still resides on the sides of teeth, which make up about 40 percent of your tooth enamel. Flossing daily will ensure your at-home care is optimized and work to reduce your risk of tooth decay and gum disease.

Schedule Your Routine Appointment

The only way to know for sure if your at-home care is sufficient or if your diet is affecting your oral health is to visit a dentist for regular checkups and cleanings. By visiting just twice a year, you can confirm many aspects about your oral health and have the confidence that you’re doing everything you can to protect it for years to come. Schedule an appointment today to get started fulfilling your new year resolution!

About the Practice

McDougal and Richards Dentistry has been providing preventive dental care for many years and shows no signs of slowing down. With dentists, hygienists and team members who have worked in the dental field for decades, you can expect only the best during your visit. To learn more about the practice, you can contact the front desk through their website.