There are many reasons why people set New Year’s resolutions. Some people do it as a way to reflect on their past year and identify areas of their life that they want to improve or change. Others set resolutions as a way to set goals for themselves and work towards a better future. Let’s learn all about how to make having a healthy smile your goal this year!

Taking Care of my Teeth Can Affect my Overall Health?

Taking care of your teeth is an important aspect of overall health, and making it a New Year’s resolution can be a good way to ensure that you prioritize your dental hygiene. Here are a few things you might consider including in your resolution.

1. Brushing

Firstly, Brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste: This helps remove plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that forms on your teeth, and can prevent tooth decay and gum disease. It is also very important to floss daily: Flossing removes plaque and food particles between your teeth and the gum line, which a toothbrush can’t reach.

2. Healthy Diet

An often overlooked but key component of a healthy smile is to eat a healthy diet: You can keep your teeth and gums healthy by eating a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and other nutritious foods. You can avoid harm to your teeth by avoiding sugary and acidic foods.

3. Dental Check-Ups

You need to visit your dentist regularly. Regular dental checkups and cleanings can help prevent problems before they start and help keep your teeth and gums healthy. You should be sure to fix any problems promptly. If you have issues with your teeth, such as cavities or broken teeth, it’s vital to have them fixed as soon as possible to avoid further damage.

4. Orthodontics

Additionally, a very important component of having a a healthy smile is to seriously consider orthodontic treatment. Maybe you want to improve the appearance of your teeth and smile, or maybe addressing misalignment is actually affecting your health. Either way, a visit to your orthodontist is a great idea to ensure that your mouth is in tip top shape for the new year!

So what if I want to straighten my teeth? 

If you want to straighten your teeth, you have several options:

1. Braces: Braces are a common and effective way to straighten teeth. They use metal brackets and wires to apply pressure to your teeth and move them into the desired position.
2. Invisalign: Invisalign is a transparent aligner system that uses a series of custom-made aligners to straighten teeth. The aligners are made of clear plastic and are virtually invisible, making them a popular choice for adults.
3. Traditional aligners: Traditional aligners are similar to Invisalign but are made of more rigid plastic and are not as discreet.
4. Retainers: Retainers hold your teeth in their new position after you have completed orthodontic treatment. They can be made of metal or plastic and are worn at night.

Your orthodontist can recommend the best option based on the severity of your misalignment and your specific needs and preferences. However, following the treatment plan prescribed by your orthodontist is essential to achieve the best results.

Why is it important for my teeth to be properly aligned? 

There are several benefits to having straight teeth, some of these are listed below. 

• Improved oral health: Straight teeth are easier to clean and maintain, which can help prevent tooth decay and gum disease.
• Improved appearance: Straight teeth can improve the appearance of your smile, making you feel more confident and self-conscious about your teeth.
• Improved function: Straight teeth can help you bite and chew more efficiently, improving your overall quality of life.
• Reduced risk of injury: Crooked teeth can be more prone to injury, significantly if they protrude or overlap. Straightening your teeth can help reduce the risk of injury.
• Improved speech: Misaligned teeth can affect the way you speak, causing you to lisp or slur your words. Straightening your teeth can help improve your speech and make communicating easier.

Overall, straight teeth can improve your oral health, appearance, and overall quality of life. If you’re considering orthodontic treatment to straighten your teeth, it’s important to discuss your options with an orthodontist. They can help you determine the best treatment plan for your specific needs.

A new year, a new smile! Contact us at Cory Liss Orthodontics to book your complimentary smile consultation and let us help you reach your oral health new year’s resolutions!