Another incredible year is coming to an end, allowing us to have a fresh start as 2019 approaches. You may be compiling your list of New Year’s resolutions and insisting that you’ll be sticking to them – which you should! Any positive work to improve yourself is always a great thing, so we want to make sure that you’ve added your dental care to that list, too. See some resolution suggestions from your 06611 dentist to protect and strengthen your teeth and gums next year below.

 

First Things First – Make an Appointment!

 

There’s no better way to start this resolution than taking that first step and scheduling an appointment with us! We know this can also be a difficult step, as well. If you haven’t visited our dentist in a while, you’re not the only one. According to the American Dental Association, about one-third of people in the United States don’t see a dentist yearly, despite it being highly suggested that you visit every six months.

 

There are dental conditions, like sensitivity, loose teeth, or bleeding gums that are important and urgent signs that you should visit our office as soon as possible. Remember, even if your teeth and gums look healthy, there could be hidden issues underneath that only our dentist can spot.

 

After you’ve successfully gone to your first appointment, always schedule your next one before leaving the office so it won’t be put on the back burner.

 

Commit to the Important Step of Flossing

 

Despite being one of the most commonly ignored steps in dental hygiene, flossing is an extremely beneficial and necessary part of taking care of your smile. When you floss, you’re getting into all the hard-to-reach places that your toothbrush just can’t clean. When you leave it there, you’re allowing the built-up bacteria to sit, linger, and cause damage to the surrounding teeth. This can make your smile weaker by creating cavities and tougher forms of decay.

 

A helpful tip is to simply bring floss with you wherever you go! Whether you have it in your car, in your bag or purse, in your desk at work, you’ll never have an excuse to skip this step. If you’re having trouble flossing properly, don’t hesitate to ask us for helpful tips – that’s what we’re here for.

 

Cut Back on Unhealthy Diets and Harmful Habits

 

These two resolutions are some of the most popular, the ones that we always hear our friends and family say. Reducing the amount of sugar intake and quitting habits like smoking cigarettes are great for your overall health, but especially your mouth. Your teeth, gums, and tongue are the first to encounter all your favorite sugary treats and the tobacco from your cigarettes, so they’re the first line of defense and usually take the most damage.

 

If you’re looking for ways to cut back and quit, please ask us for advice. We know that everyone is unique, and their cravings are all quite different, but we would be more than happy to point you in the right direction, so you can start caring for your body that much more.

 

While making your New Year’s resolutions are simple enough, executing on them is the tough part, but your 06611 dentist is ready to give you the push you need! Schedule an appointment with our office by calling 203-261-8749 and we’ll help you start 2019 with a brighter, healthier smile.