4 Simple New Year’s Resolutions for a Healthier Smile in 2022

Have you ever set an exciting New Year’s resolution only to get burned out on it by the end of January? This happens all too often, especially when your goals for the year are too lofty or unattainable. If you want to make major improvements that last, why not make your New Year’s resolutions simple and achievable? For example, you could resolve to put more effort toward caring for your smile. Taking small steps to improve your oral health can pay off in the long run. With these four simple resolutions, you can enjoy a healthy smile for the rest of 2022 and for many years to come!

1. Attend Two Dental Checkups This Year

This year, strive to visit your dentist for a routine checkup every six months, even if your teeth feel perfectly fine. Cavities and other oral health concerns often don’t hurt in the early stages, but your dentist can detect and treat them long before they have the chance to worsen. These appointments also give the dental hygienist a chance to professionally clean your teeth, leaving your smile feeling fresh while removing built-up plaque.

2. Get in the Habit of Brushing and Flossing

We already know that oral hygiene is important, but most of us don’t brush and floss nearly as often as we should. Most Americans only brush for 45 seconds at a time instead of the recommended two minutes, and only about one-third floss on a daily basis. Investing a little more time into your oral care routine can go a long way toward preventing cavities, gum disease, and many other dental problems. Set daily reminders on your phone until these habits become second nature.

3. Limit Soda and Other Acidic Beverages

Even though diet soda doesn’t contain sugar, it can still wreak havoc on your teeth. Its high acidity can wear down tooth enamel, leaving you more susceptible to sensitivity and decay. For that reason, try to limit soda as well as other acidic drinks like energy drinks, wine, and sports drinks. Water and milk are much healthier alternatives for your pearly whites.

4. Quit Dangerous Dental Habits

Do you tend to bite your fingernails or chew on pen tips when you’re stressed or bored? Do you often use your teeth to open bottles or hold that last bag of groceries? At first glance, these habits might seem harmless, but they weaken your teeth over time. Not to mention, they could all too easily crack or chip a tooth. To lower your risk of a painful dental emergency, do your best to recognize these habits and put a stop to them.

With these practical New Year’s resolutions in mind, you’re all set to make 2022 the best year yet for your smile!

About the Practice

At Park Street Dental of Grove City, our three expert dentists don’t just look at your mouth and tell you what treatments you need; they listen to your specific goals and collaborate with you on the best approach for your smile. When you visit them, you can trust that they’ll come up with unique, personalized ways for you to keep your New Year’s resolutions and maintain a healthy smile for years to come. If you’re ready to set better dental habits in 2022, reach out to us by calling 614-875-9500.