Simple Steps To A New Year’s Resolution You Can Keep

dental health goal plymouth mnThe New Year is here! For many of us, our new year’s resolutions include wanting to live healthier. We all know that change is hard so we have put together some tips to help you ensure a healthier smile in 2015!

According to an article from the American Psychological Association, the keys to actually making are new year’s resolutions stick are to is in a series of small bite sized steps. They say to:

  • Start small 
  • Change one behavior at a time
  • Talk about it
  • Don’t beat yourself up
  • Ask for support

The good news for your oral care is that with a little diligence, you can strengthen your smile against serious dental health issues, such as tooth decay or gum disease.

1) Brush Your Teeth Twice A Day

A major part of improving your oral health simply involves brushing your teeth. You should brush your teeth twice a day, once in the morning and again before bed. We recommend using a brush with soft bristles, as hard bristles can potentially damage your enamel. When shopping for a toothbrush or toothpaste, always look for the American Dental Association seal of approval.

2) Floss Everyday

While brushing is important, flossing is even more vital to maintaining good dental health. You should floss at least once a day, particularly before going to bed. Ideally you should floss your teeth after every meal. Flossing removes food that has become lodged between teeth. Brushing alone may not be able to reach these bits of food. If not removed, bacteria I your mouth break down the particles and coat your teeth in plaque in the process. Soon, you can experience an increased risk of tooth decay and gum disease as a result.

3) Keep On Schedule For Your Routine Dental Checkups & Cleanings

Along with good home care regimen, staying on a routine of regular dental cleanings and check ups allows us to help you watch for any early signs of problems and treat the issue before the problem progresses. Also, professional dental cleaning with our hygienists will remove the plaque that brushing and flossing alone can’t address, protecting your teeth and gums from periodontal disease and cavities.

Ready to get started? We are here for you – your support team! Just give us a call at (763) 525-5011 or click here to send us an email. Remember it just takes a series of small steps to reach your goal. We know you can do it and you’ll be happy you did!