Healthy habits you should follow this new year

The new year is almost here and with it, we often think of new beginnings. What a great time to add a new habit to your oral health routine! Here are a few things you can easily add to your routine that not only improve your oral health by decreasing your risk of tooth decay and gum disease, but also reduce the amount of inflammation in your body. When teeth are not properly cleaned and cared for, plaque left in and under your gums can cause your body to produce an inflammatory response. Which of these new habits will you add to your routine this month to help improve your oral health and reduce inflammation?

​1. Brushing

If you currently are brushing every morning, I suggest adding night time brushing into your routine. Night time brushing is the most important time to brush your teeth because when you are sleeping you have less saliva in your mouth to wash away the bacteria on your teeth that cause decay, gum disease, and halitosis.

Still using a manual toothbrush? You may consider using a power toothbrush. Power brushes give you many more strokes per minute, therefore, increasing the efficiency of plaque removal.

2. Cleaning between your teeth

If you are not currently using something to clean between your teeth, consider finding a tool you can incorporate into your daily routine.

There are more options than floss if you finding flossing difficult, make sure your hygienist knows so they can recommend other useful options for you such as a waterpik. Ask your hygienist to give some suggestions of what will work well for you.

3. Oral rinses

You may want to add a therapeutic mouth rinse. If you suffer from dry mouth or oral irritation from alcohol based mouthwashes, consider a brand of mouthwash that contains no alcohol. The effects of the mouthwash to keep your teeth clean is the same!

4. Tongue cleaning

This is a great addition to your daily routine that will decrease the amount of bacteria in your mouth and freshen your breath. Use a gentle tongue scraper or just use your toothbrush!

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5. Regular dental hygiene visits

If you currently are not currently scheduled to visit a dental hygienist on a regular basis, I highly recommend booking yourself a new client exam and cleaning. Routine cleanings are different for everyone, some people need to be seen every 6 months to a year, while others need to be seen more often in order to treat or prevent disease. Your dentist can help you decide what will work best for you.

Start your healthy new habits for the new year by scheduling your next appointment!