Most New Year’s resolutions have to do with weight loss, better financial decisions and even work life balance, but seldom do you hear about maintaining better oral health in the New Year.
Ironically, 79% of American adults agree that there is a connection between oral health and overall health. So why not make new dental resolutions for 2017?
With the help of NYC area dentists, we’ve put together a list of New Year’s Resolutions for your teeth that will help you achieve better oral and overall health:
Resolution #1: Cut Out Sugary Soft Drinks
According to Manhattan-based dentist, Dr. Ericka Buyco of Emergency Dentist NYC, one of the best resolutions you can make in 2017 is to stop drinking soda.
Soda can cause erosion and cavities. The acids in soft drinks can wear down tooth enamel, which is the outermost protective layer of your teeth. Don’t let “diet” or “sugar free” fool you. Diet soft drinks contain their own acids that can damage teeth.
Try limiting your intake of soft drinks and drinking more water.
Resolution #2: Floss More and Floss Often
Recently in the news, a dentist claimed that flossing your teeth wasn’t necessary for healthy teeth and gums. Dr. Alexander Antonakos of NewYorkCosmeticDental.com is of the opinion that you should only floss the teeth you want to keep.
Unsure of how often you should floss? Dr. Elliot Davis of The Manhattan Dentist recommends that you floss twice a day.
Flossing can remove plaque from between the teeth and gums. Buildup of plaque can lead to tooth decay and gum disease.
Try to add flossing to your daily, twice-a-day regimen in addition to daily brushing of the teeth and tongue.
Resolution #3: Avoid Seltzer Water
Many people believe that because club soda doesn’t contain sugar, that it’s okay for your teeth. That’s not the case. Dr. Nancy Marin-Rojas of Union Square Smiles suggests that you should avoid seltzer water because the carbonation in it leads to tooth decay.
How? This carbonated beverage gets its fizz from carbon dioxide. When you drink seltzer water, a chemical reaction occurs in your mouth that turns the carbon dioxide into carbonic acid – which is actually what gives you that refreshing taste – but it also creates acid that can weaken tooth enamel.
While seltzer is better than a sugary soft drink, don’t be fooled into thinking it’s the best option for your teeth.
Try staying away from carbonated beverages and drinking water or even milk.
Resolution #4: Don’t Skip Your Dental Appointments
Dr. Neal K. Fujishige of New York Dental Group advises, “Keep up with your dental appointment every six months, at least twice a year.”
Regular dentist visits are essential to maintaining oral health. At least twice a year, you should schedule a regular dentist visit. During this visit, your dentist will check your teeth for tooth decay and evaluate the health of your gums and mouth for any indication of disease. Your dentist or dental hygienist will also clean your teeth and explain the importance of a proper dental routine – making sure that in between dental visits, you’re stopping plaque buildup by brushing and flossing. Your dentist will also take look at your tongue and throat to make sure everything is ok.
Try to make at least two regular dental checkups every year to maintain dental health.
To maintain a healthy mouth and teeth, be sure to commit to these resolutions in 2017.
Thanks to all the NYC area dentists for lending their expertise!
