Start 2020 with a resolution to improve your smile, and oral health in general. Everyone knows you should be brushing and flossing at least twice daily, but what other small, day to day changes can be made to improve your oral health? Here are 6 small, day to day adjustments that can make large improvements in your overall oral health in the upcoming new year:

1. Invest in an electric toothbrush- Electric toothbrushes have been shown to be more effective in plaque removal. Studies have also shown them to be more effective in the fight against gingivitis than manual toothbrushes. https://www.healthline.com/health/dental-and-oral-health/electric-toothbrush-vs- manual#electric-pros. Also, as most electric toothbrushes are equipped with built-in timers, wondering if you have brushed for the recommended full two minutes is a thing of the past. An electric toothbrush can also be a fantastic solution to the problem of limited mobility.

2. Consistently see your dentist for a professional check-up every 6 months. - There is no substitute for a professional cleaning and an overall look at how your oral health is being maintained. Dental visits can detect potential problems early, reducing costs and further damage to the teeth, gum, and bone. In addition to being able to speak with your dentist about any oral health issues, regular visits to your dentist can also be key to early detection of cancers of the mouth and throat. https://www.dentalcare.com/en-us/patient-education/patient- materials/why-are-regular-dental-visits-important.

3. Opt for sugar-free alternatives when possible- Sugar is the natural enemy of tooth enamel. In order to help your teeth in the fight to stay healthy, go sugar free in your product choices whenever the opportunity presents itself. Some products with acceptable alternatives to sugar have the ADA (American Dental Association) seal of approval for easier identification of products deemed to be better for your teeth. https://www.ada.org/en/member-center/oral-health-topics/chewing-gum .

4. Avoid tobacco products- Avoid all tobacco products. Smokeless tobacco choices are not acceptable alternatives to smoking, especially where your oral health is concerned. Not only do tobacco products stain your teeth, they damage your oral health as a whole, and don’t do any favors for your breath. Tobacco products also age your teeth prematurely, dulling your naturally radiant smile to a yellowed version of itself.

5. Drink fluoridated water- Fluoridated water protects everyone, from 1 to 101, from cavities when you consume it. It also has been shown to prevent tooth decay. Fluoride is a naturally occurring trace element in groundwater and oceans. https://www.cdc.gov/fluoridation/index.html

6. What you consume for fuel is reflected in your overall oral health- Try to eat a whole food diet, including lots of lean protein, vegetables, fruits, and avoid most processed foods where you can. Also, try to increase your intake of the anti-periodontal vitamins, including calcium, phosphorus, zinc, iron, folate, and Vitamins A through Vitamin D. All of these are essential in maintaining strong, healthy teeth and discouraging the onset of diseases like periodontitis. Many micronutrients and macronutrients are important in your oral health, and being aware of their role in your diet can go a long way in protecting your smile. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5037517/

By making these minor, everyday adjustments, you can improve the health of your teeth and gums exponentially. A beautiful smile is the result of better everyday oral maintenance. Healthy teeth are an important part of a healthy smile, and what better reason for smiling than knowing your oral health is being given an overhaul in the new year?