Happy New Year from the Falmouth Dental Arts team! The new year is always a great time to recommit to making positive changes to your health routine, and oral health is no different! Small changes, repeated often, become habits. At FDA, we believe that practicing healthy habits at home can make a big impact on your oral health. Here are seven tips to improve your oral health in 2023. They are tried and true and are sure to help you!
1) Brush for Two Minutes, Two Times a Day
Gently brush your teeth for two minutes, twice a day, using a soft-bristled, ADA-approved toothbrush. Check out our tips for proper brushing technique. We are always happy to make suggestions about the best type of toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste, so please don’t hesitate to just ask us!
2) Floss Your Teeth Once a Day
In addition to brushing twice daily with a fluoride toothpaste, it is important to floss your teeth at least once a day to remove plaque and food particles between your teeth. Use traditional string floss or flossers to gently get between each tooth.
3) Use a Mouth Rinse With Fluoride
Using products with fluoride helps to strengthen tooth enamel and reduce bacteria, which helps with overall oral health and teeth sensitivity. We offer several professional-strength, alcohol-free mouth rinses made with essential oils.
4) Make Healthy Food Choices
There are many dietary changes you can make which will have a positive impact on your oral health and will help keep your smile shining bright! For example, you can:
- Reduce the sugar in your diet.
- Cut back on acidic foods and beverages, like citrus fruits and soft drinks.
- Rinse with water after meals, sugary snacks, and drinks.
- Increase your intake of calcium-rich foods like cheese and yogurt.
5) Kick Tobacco to the Curb
Giving up smoking and other forms of tobacco use is one of the best things you can do for your oral health and overall health. Tobacco use is linked to tooth decay, gum disease, and oral cancer. There is help available to quit this highly addictive habit, and we’ll be here to cheer you on. Let us know if you need support!
6) Treat Yourself to an Electric Toothbrush
Your oral health is worth it! An electric toothbrush can upgrade your oral health routine by brushing more efficiently and by making it easier to brush for a full two minutes. This can be especially helpful for those with arthritis or other conditions that make brushing by hand more difficult.
7) Routine Dental Visits
Start the new year off right by scheduling your recommended cleanings or other dental care appointments. Dr. Brunacini and Dr. Karagiorgos recommend coming in for a check up at least twice a year for optimal oral health. Preventative dental care is one of the best things you can do for yourself in the new year. Give us a call at 207.781.5900 if you would like to schedule an appointment – we’re here to help!