Are you still thinking of ideas for New Year’s resolutions? It can be hard to come up with one that’s not “lose weight” or “save money.” If you’re looking for a unique way to improve yourself in 2021, why not stand out from the rest by making sure your smile stays bright and healthy? Here are four simple tips from a dentist in Reno on how to achieve and maintain a healthy smile this year.
Cut Back on Sugar
Now that the holiday season is over, reducing your sugar intake probably won’t be too hard. After all, chances are you’ve had more than enough of your grandma’s famous pumpkin pie. But even if you still crave sweets, your smile will thank you if you cut back. Why? Eating and drinking sugary items increases your risk for gum disease and tooth decay. Swapping out some of these sweet treats for sugar-free alternatives can prevent these issues and keep your smile bright.
Drink Plenty of Water
There are very few health problems that can’t be avoided by drinking more water. Not only does water fuel your body, but it keeps your salivary glands working efficiently. Producing plenty of saliva, as well as sipping water throughout the day, washes food debris and bacteria off of your teeth. This prevents them from causing cavities and gum infections. To help you start adding more water to your daily routine, purchase a bottle with increment markings (by the ounce) to help you keep track of how much you should drink in a day.
Start Flossing More Often
Your toothbrush only cleans three of the five surfaces of your teeth. Flossing is the only way to remove food particles and built-up plaque from between your teeth and along your gumline that could otherwise cause oral health issues. Make sure to floss at least once a day. If you need help remembering, place your floss container on top of your toothbrush holder.
Commit to Your Dental Appointments
It’s all too easy to fill up your calendar with family gatherings, meetings, and other events that you might end up canceling. But if you really want a healthy smile in 2021, make sure you commit to your dental checkups and cleanings every six months. These appointments allow your dentist in Reno to check for early signs of cavities, gum disease, oral cancer, and more. Plus, you can get your teeth thoroughly cleaned and shining brightly!
Your smile is often one of the first things people notice about you, so follow these tips to make sure yours looks and feels great in 2021.
About the Practice
At Sage Dental Care, we have two skilled dentists serving patients in the Reno, NV area. Dr. Josh Branco and Dr. Annie Kim both attained their dental doctorates from Boston University and participate in numerous professional organizations, including the Academy of General Dentistry and the American Dental Association. For more information on keeping your smile healthy this year, visit their website or call (775) 204-1975.