The New Year Is Around the Corner; Resolve to Practice Better Oral Hygiene!

The new year is coming up fast, and that means that many people who wish to better themselves will resolve to quit smoking, cut back on their drinking, exercise more, or spend more time with the kids. While these are all admirable resolutions on their own, it’s also a great idea to start the new year with better oral hygiene. Here’s how committing to improving your oral care routine can improve your quality of life and overall happiness.

Improve Your Social Life with a Prettier Smile!

Having a smile you can be confident in can make a big difference for your social life. People who smile frequently are more likely to be seen as friendly, trustworthy, and approachable by those around them, which can make it much easier for them to meet people, win trust, make friends, and share fun times with others. Brushing, flossing, and using antibacterial mouthwash on a daily basis will help your teeth stay shiny and bright while keeping your breath fresh and inoffensive, which can make socializing a much smoother process for many people.

Save Time and Money by Preventing Nasty Oral Health Issues!

Oral infections such as tooth decay and gum disease are insidious threats that can seem insignificant when they first develop, but neglecting to treat them can lead to serious oral health consequences. Improving your oral health routine can spare you the misery caused by as well as the expense of treating issues like:

• Destructive cavities
• Agonizing toothaches
• Tooth loss
• Gum recession
• Chronic bad breath (halitosis)
• Potentially, dangerous secondary infections such as sepsis and pneumonia

Set a Good Example for the Kids!

Excellent oral care is a crucial part of maintaining a person’s overall health throughout their lifespan, and the sooner someone gets started with proper oral hygiene, the better. Many people make New Year’s resolutions intended to help them set a good example for their children since kids learn largely by observing their parents, and demonstrating proper oral hygiene can help your child form good habits that can last a lifetime. Good habits are as hard to break as bad ones, and getting your kid hooked on hygiene early can set them up for a lifetime of good oral and overall health.

Don’t let the new year pass by without making a few constructive changes in your life. By brushing, flossing, using antibacterial mouthwash, and seeing your dentist regularly, you can help your smile stay healthy and beautiful for many decades to come.

About the Author

Dr. Jeffrey F. Hermen earned his dental degree at the OU College of Dentistry and is an Invisalign Certified Provider. He also serves as a member of the Oklahoma Dental Association as well as on the board of the Oklahoma County Dental Society. His office in Oklahoma City offers general, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry. To learn more about proper oral care, contact his office online or dial (405) 621-2100.