4 Tips for Healthier Teeth & Gums In 2020

It’s the start of a new year, which is a great time to set goals and intentions to build a healthier and happier you. Your smile is oftentimes the first trait that people get to admire about you, and if you’re not confident in the way it looks and feels, that can have a serious impact on your self-esteem. To kick off the new decade, your family dentist in Michigan City is offering four tips and tricks for healthier teeth and gums in 2020.

Schedule Your Routine Checkups and Cleanings

Many people wonder why it’s necessary to schedule checkups and cleanings with their dentist every six months when they’re diligent about brushing and flossing at home. If you’re wondering the same thing, here’s your answer: your dentist is specially trained and equipped with knowledge and gadgets that help remove tartar from the deepest nooks and crannies in your mouth. Without their examinations and cleanings, harmful substances would accumulate and cause even more problems down the road. For the new decade, try to not put these important visits on the backburner.

Don’t Forget to Floss

It’s no surprise that many people skip flossing at least once a day, even though it’s recommended by the American Dental Association. It can be an awkward and uncomfortable part of your dental hygiene routine, especially if your gums aren’t used to it. However, it’s a necessary step to take to keep your gums healthy. For 2020, try investing in some new gadgets that make flossing easier for you, like a water flosser or flossing picks. These are effective tools that are easier to maneuver around your mouth.

Watch Your Sugar Consumption

If you’re a sweets person, this can be one of the hardest factors to change about your diet. However, being sure to not consume excessive amounts of sugar has several overall health benefits, including ones for your mouth. Harmful oral bacteria feed on sugars and carbohydrates found in your plaque, allowing them to produce harmful waste like enamel-eroding acid and toxins that can cause gum inflammation. Although limiting your sugar consumption is a difficult task to take on, it’s well worth it for your oral and overall health.

Kick Bad Oral Habits

Bad oral habits like smoking and nail-biting have more of an impact on your teeth and gums than you may think. If you aren’t sure how your daily activities are impacting your smile, be sure to ask your family dentist in Michigan City next time you visit them for a checkup and cleaning. These habits can cause your teeth to discolor, increase your risk of countless oral health problems and diseases, and cause your enamel to wear down faster. In 2020, try to make a point to kick these bad oral habits once and for all.

This year, turn over a new leaf by forming healthy habits that keep your smile beautiful and your confidence high. With brighter and healthier teeth and gums, you’ll be less hesitant to start conversations with new people and laugh more, which is a great way to get more enjoyment out of your life.

About the Author

Dr. Valerie Haughtington has always known that she wanted to become a dentist. She strives to create a caring and comfortable environment for each of her patients, so they feel relaxed while taking care of their oral health. She is committed to continuing her education every year so she can stay up-to-date with the latest technology and techniques in her field. She provides comprehensive dental care to patients of all ages so they can maintain the healthiest and happiest smiles possible. For questions or to schedule a checkup and cleaning, visit Edgewood Dental’s website or call 219-898-4545.