Just like that the calendar turns another page, and we find ourselves at the threshold of a brand-new year.
The new year is a fresh start. Many of us are in the habit of making resolutions, aiming to boost our health, take charge of our finances, or infuse more joy into our lives.
This New Year, why not throw a spotlight on something that might be a game-changer for your overall well-being? Yep, you guessed it – your smile!
Resolving to take better care of those pearly whites in the New Year is a great idea.
If you’ve been looking for ways to improve your oral health in the new year, this one’s for you.
We’ve got a few simple ideas for how to improve your oral health in 2024. From mastering the art of flossing, staying on top of your regular dental checkups, and enjoying tooth-friendly delights, we’d love to help you achieve a healthier smile in the new year.
Regular Dental Checkups
You knew we were going to say it. Regular visits to your dentist are one of the easiest things you can do to look after your oral health.
There’s a good reason we recommend you visit us 6 monthly. It gives our dental team the chance to catch potential issues, like tooth decay or gum disease early, giving a much better chance of preventing them from becoming big problems.
From routine cleanings to thorough examinations, we’re dedicated to ensuring your smile stays vibrant and healthy through 2024 and beyond.
Daily flossing
Flossing daily is a simple yet powerful habit that often gets forgotten.
Flossing every day helps to keep your teeth and gums healthy by removing plaque and debris from between your teeth and along the gumline, areas that your toothbrush might miss. Our team at Lillybrook Dental can provide expert guidance on proper flossing techniques, making it easy for you to incorporate this essential step into your daily routine.
Cut back on the sweets
If you’re like many of us, indulging in sweet treats over the holiday season is an undeniable joy. However, the unfortunate truth, is that many Queenslanders are exceeding global health recommendations for sugar intake.
It’s no secret that eating too much sugar can be bad for your health. This is because the sugar in your diet can contribute to the buildup of plaque on your teeth, providing a feast for bacteria and potentially leading to acid formation and tooth decay.
Cutting back on sugar is not only a favour to your overall health but also a crucial step in keeping your smile healthy. One of the simplest ways to reduce your sugar intake is by minimising sugary drinks and opting for sugar-free alternatives. However, we understand that the occasional sugary treat is hard to resist.
If you find yourself enjoying something sweet, consider these tips to reduce the impact on your teeth:
- Brush your teeth: Ideally, brush your teeth right after indulging in a sugary treat. This helps to remove sugar residues and prevent them from contributing to plaque buildup.
- Rinse with water: If reaching for your toothbrush isn’t possible immediately, a quick rinse with water can be a handy alternative. This helps to dilute and remove any lingering sugar on the surface of your teeth.
Embrace Tooth-Friendly Snacking
Eating well is important to your oral health. Opt for crunchy fruits and vegetables like apples, celery, and carrots, which not only satisfy your snack cravings but also help naturally clean your teeth and freshen your breath. Incorporating these snacks into your diet can contribute to a healthier mouth and a more radiant smile.
Treat yourself to a new toothbrush
Did you know that the Australian Dental Association recommend that you replace your toothbrush every 3 months?
If you’ve been guilty of sticking with the same old toothbrush for a little too long, you’re not alone. But the fact is, over time your old toothbrush can become worn, and the bristles can spread apart, making them less effective at cleaning your teeth well. So why not start the year off right and treat yourself to a new toothbrush.
And here’s a bonus resolution for you: consider extending your brushing time by thirty seconds this year. Life gets hectic, and it’s easy to cut corners, especially when it comes to the length of time you spend brushing your teeth. The goal is to brush your teeth for a solid 2 minutes, twice a day, to ensure the proper removal of plaque and bacteria, keeping your teeth in tip-top shape.
The new year is the perfect opportunity to upgrade your brushing routine by dedicating a bit more time to it. Trust us; those extra thirty seconds will be time well spent!
How Lillybrook Dental can help
The fresh start of a new year is a fantastic opportunity to create lasting dental habits that not only contribute to a sparkling smile but also elevate your overall health and well-being.
Kickstart your New Year’s resolutions by booking an appointment with our team.
Whether it’s a routine checkup, expert advice on oral care practices, or guidance on incorporating tooth-friendly habits into your daily routine, we’re here to support your journey to optimal oral health.
*All information is general and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Lillybrook Dental can consult with you to confirm which treatment is right for you.
