As we have stepped into 2023, we have new resolutions to achieve. A new year always brings new resolutions. People always set resolutions like losing weight, staying active, etc. But one of the most common new year's resolutions in 2023 is taking care of your oral health.

The new year brings a renewed focus on health and wellness, including your dental health! Here are a few tips to follow through on this year's resolutions.

Don't Let Your Diet Derail Your Dental Health

There's no shortage of diets that claim to be the "best" (or worst) for you. However, it's not necessarily what you eat but how you eat it that can affect your dental health. Anyone can enjoy a bite of chocolate cake now and then as long as they practice moderation and brush their teeth afterward.

Another popular diet – the ketogenic diet – can be particularly detrimental to your dental health because it involves eating high amounts of protein and very little carbohydrates, which your body needs for energy and fuel. This can lead to dry mouth, cavities, and other oral health issues. Talk to your dentist if you're considering the keto diet to make sure it won't have a negative impact on your smile.

Try Chewing Sugarless Gum After Meals

Many foods – especially those that are sugary – can cause acid production in your mouth, which can weaken your teeth and cause tooth decay or sensitivity. To combat this, try chewing sugarless gum after meals and snacks. This stimulates saliva production and can help wash away food particles left behind by meals and drinks. Just be sure to use sugar-free gum products, as regular varieties can lead to cavities and sugar cravings.

Make Bi-Annual Checkups a Priority

It's easy to slack on routine visits to the dentist's office, especially if you're busy or don't feel like you have time in your busy schedule to fit it into the calendar. However, these visits are extremely important for your smile and your overall health as well. If it's been a while since your last appointment, contact your dentist today to schedule your next checkup.

Brush Twice a Day

One of the worst habits that patients get themselves into is brushing improperly. When you don't brush properly, you miss plaque and food debris that can build up and cause cavities and gum disease.

You'll want to brush your teeth at least twice a day. Every time you eat a meal, you should rinse your mouth out with water first to remove food particles that are stuck between your teeth. Then take a toothbrush with soft bristle and angle it at a 45-degree angle towards the gum line. Gently move the bristles up and down in a gentle rocking motion. Work your way around each tooth before rinsing out the toothpaste from your mouth and adding another layer.

Floss Regularly

If you made a resolution to floss every day, that's great! However, it's important to be smart about your flossing routine, so you don't give yourself a sore jaw or gums. First, make sure you're using the proper technique. 

Use Mouthwash

Rinse your mouth with water after you're done. This will help remove bacteria from your mouth as well. Consider using mouthwash after you floss to help kill any leftover bacteria and freshen your breath.

If you're overdue for a checkup and cleaning, be sure to schedule an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible by calling Dr. Dizik's office today. Call (650) 348-5424 to book an appointment, or visit us at 720 N El Camino Real, San Mateo, CA 94401.