As you reminisce about the year past, do you think you could’ve stuck to your oral hygiene just a bit more? While it might not have been the worst, you may have developed some bad habits that you want to break. There’s no time like the present to fix them up, especially as you get ready to welcome 2026! Here are five New Year’s Resolutions that can help you have a healthier smile in the long run.
1.) Brush for At Least Two Minutes a Night
There may be some nights when you don’t feel like brushing your teeth, as you’re tired or for another reason. It’s important that you push through it and scrub your grin for a full two minutes every morning and before you count sheep. This simple habit helps remove a large portion of plaque, ensuring you avoid oral health issues.
2.) Floss Before Bed Every Day
When you brush, you are only cleaning about 60% of your smile. The rest are taken care of by flossing. There are sneaky bacteria that might linger between your teeth and along your gumline. This habit helps get rid of them, so set a reminder on your phone or put a sticky note on your mirror!
3.) Quit Using Tobacco
If you chew or smoke tobacco, then it can have a serious impact on your grin. It can not only lead to stains that leave you insecure, but also to dental problems. You may be at a higher risk of gum disease, which is an infection in the pink soft tissues in your mouth. Your gums may become inflamed and noticeably red, or you might experience tooth loss when it’s left untreated for long enough.
4.) Have a Nutritious Diet
A great way you can support your overall and oral health is by eating a balanced diet. Giving your body the fuel it needs to stay strong can boost your immune system and help it fight against infection. Foods that are rich in vitamins A, C, D, calcium, and phosphorus are some to stock up on as they keep your teeth and gums strong.
5.) Keep Up with Consistent Visits to Your Dentist
Everything above can help keep your grin the best it can be, but routine dental visits are just as crucial. Doing what you can at home is about half of the work, and your dentist will cover the rest. They are trained to watch for red flags and give you prompt treatment. Any hardened plaque and tartar will also be removed; that way, you can enjoy the new year without worrying about your smile.
About the Practice
At Flenniken Family Dentistry, you benefit from a team of skilled dentists who look after you and your oral health. We are here to help the Carlisle community feel their best about their set of teeth through effective preventive care. By keeping an eye out for dental problems, we can catch them early and use state-of-the-art instruments to fix them up efficiently. If you want to start the new year off right with a strong grin, schedule an appointment or call our office at (717) 249-7777.
