Every January, many people set goals for the new year. Why not make having a healthy smile one of them? What are your oral health goals and what can you do to reach them?

For your oral health care routine…

The first step to a healthy smile is visiting your dentist. Regular appointments can detect early problems and prevent potential ones. Next, modify your home oral health care routine. Brush twice daily for two minutes and floss once a day before brushing. This habit of removing plaque is essential. Use a toothpaste with fluoride. There are different types to choose from to suit your needs. For example, a whitening toothpaste or one that reduces gingivitis. A soft-bristled toothbrush is best for your teeth and oral tissues. Replace your toothbrush every two to three months. Ask your dentist for brushing tips to make the most of your home oral health care routine.

For your sweet tooth…

What you eat plays an important role in achieving a healthy smile. Frequent amounts of sugar feed cavity-causing bacteria in your mouth. Aim to limit how often you consume sugar. Reach for fresh fruit to satisfy your sugar needs. These sugars are a better option because of the water content in fruit. Drinking water after eating clears the mouth of any sugars that cavity-causing bacteria can use.

For a whiter smile…

There are many reasons for staining on teeth. Some stains are within the tooth and could be caused by past medications or trauma to the tooth. There are also surface stains that can be caused by wine, coffee, tobacco or tea. To remove surface stains, a whitening toothpaste may help. For any stain, whitening treatments are an option. Some teeth with existing dental work such as crowns and fillings can’t be whitened. Whitening options include a procedure completed entirely at the dental office or getting a custom tray made with product to take home. Whitening can cause temporary tooth sensitivity. Using a toothpaste for sensitive teeth can help. Talk to your dentist about available options and which one would work best for you.

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