Many of our recent posts have gone over various topics regarding oral health. One of the common factors in all those topics has to do with consistency. Themes such as brushing and flossing everyday, scheduling cleanings every year, and regularly monitoring intake of harmful foods are all habitual concepts.
With the new year upon us, it is always helpful to consider your current habits and make a plan of action to develop new ones. Simply focusing on improving your oral health habits will naturally lead to healthier diet among other beneficial habits.
1. Brushing and Flossing
If you have trouble remembering to brush every morning and night you might try placing a reminder note somewhere you know you will see it. Here are a few places to consider putting such a reminder note: your bathroom mirror, your refrigerator, dashboard of your car, or perhaps a phone reminder. The benefits to brushing and flossing morning and night could literally add years to your life.
2. Regular Cleanings
Your dentist will usually have a system to remind you when you are due for a cleaning. It is just good business to do so. However, it does not hurt to set a reminder on your phone or calendar when it is time to get another cleaning. It will not only benefit your dentist, it will greatly improve your oral health and save you a great deal of money over the long run. A trained dental hygienist has tools and techniques that will further prevent cavities and prolong the white appearance of your teeth as well.
3. Diet
Not only will eating a balanced healthy diet help you manage weight and your overall health, it will also reduce the amount of harmful bacteria build up in your mouth. Setting up a meal plan will help you keep your diet on track and serve as a guide to improving your diet. Planning out each meal for each day of the week can prove to be tremendously helpful. We have posted several articles going over the many different types of food to avoid and eat more of, however, a simple reminder to start the new year will keep the topic top of mind. Sticky, sugary, and acidic foods should be avoided. Green, fresh, and simple foods should be eaten every day.
