As the holiday season draws to a close, it’s time to reflect on the previous year and look ahead to the next. What promises of renewal or change will you make in 2019? As some shift their focus to personal wellness, fitness, or relationships with family and friends, others are choosing to tackle dental check-ups and improved dental hygiene. With any goal, consistency is key; furthermore, understanding the positive effects of your efforts can make them that much more rewarding. Whether dealing with teeth, gums, or dentures, we’ve come up with a few effective strategies to restore and preserve your oral health in this year and beyond:
Improve Brushing and Flossing Techniques
Ingrained in our brains since early childhood, daily brushing and flossing are the simplest ways to improve your oral health. The first step is purchasing an appropriately sized, soft-bristled toothbrush. These can be manual or electric, and they are most effective when used with fluoridated toothpaste. Then, establish a set routine for brushing and flossing. It is recommended to brush at least twice a day, followed by a complementary floss to remove excess bacterial plaque. Doing so can reduce your risk for gum disease, tooth decay, or bad breath. Ask what products or routines are best for your needs at your next appointment.
Think About Consumption Choices
Neglecting your overall wellness can affect your oral health and vice versa. Poor nutritional habits weaken your immune system, putting you at a higher risk for different dental disorders. By ridding your routine of tobacco or items that contain significant carbohydrates or acids, you can help remove stains, reduce tooth decay and cavities, protect your gums, and enhance your smile. Try adding fruits, vegetables, nuts, and other high antioxidant foods into your diet, as doing so can remove plaque and aid in the fight against bacteria and inflammation.
Consultation and Restoration
One of the most effective ways to maintain oral hygiene is to regularly schedule and attend dental checkups. More frequent cleanings and examinations can assist in detecting issues like gum disease, cancer, or tissue damage. For certain cases, restorative dentistry may be an option. Items like crowns, fillings, implants, and braces fall into this category. Recognizing problems early on can aid in proper tooth alignment, preservation of tooth structure, and oral health improvement.
Maintaining denture and oral hygiene is a full-time responsibility, so begin your year with solid resolutions and habits to stay on track. With a wide variety of services and advanced training in diagnosis, treatment planning, dental implants, and repair and replacement, Dr. June and the Dentures Par Excellence team can help create custom-designed treatment plans to fit your unique goals and needs. If looking to transform your smile, self-confidence, and overall wellness in 2019, call us at (309) 693-7200 to schedule your next appointment and follow us on Facebook for additional tips.