It’s that time of year again where we all resolve to make positive changes in our lives. Changes that will hopefully last throughout the entire year and, with any luck, become part of our healthy lifestyle for all the years to come.

Where did it all begin?

• The ancient Babylonians made promises to their gods at the start of each year that they would return borrowed objects and pay their debts.
• The Romans began each year by making promises to the god Janus, for whom the month of January is named.
• In the Medieval era, the knights took the “peacock vow” at the end of the Christmas season each year to re-affirm their commitment to chivalry.
• At watchnight services, many Christians prepare for the year ahead by praying and making these resolutions.

When it comes to picking a New Year’s Resolution, our vote goes to taking care of your oral health! As the parents of our sweet patients, taking care of yourself, as well as you take care of you little ones, is important to us.

Beyond brushing twice a day, here are some steps you can incorporate into your daily dental routine:

Brush & Floss
Brushing twice a day is a given that most people accept and practice, but it’s even better to brush three times a day or after every meal. In addition, you should floss at least once a day. These activities remove plaque, which is a complex mass of bacteria that constantly forms on your teeth. If plaque isn’t removed every day, it can turn the sugars found in most foods and drinks into acids that lead to decay. Bacteria in plaque also cause gingivitis and other periodontal diseases. It’s important to brush and floss correctly and thoroughly. You need to remove plaque from all sides of the tooth and where the tooth meets the gums. If plaque is not removed, it can lead to gum problems and cavities.

Use Fluoride Products
Everyone can benefit from fluoride, not just children. Fluoride strengthens developing teeth in children and it also helps prevent decay in adults as well as children. Toothpastes and mouthwashes are good sources of fluoride. Your dentist can prescribe a stronger concentration of fluoride in a gel, toothpaste or rinse if you need it. Gels are either brushed on or applied using a tray. Prescription products contain more fluoride and offer more protection against cavities than over-the-counter products.

Another thing to consider that you may not know, if you are taking medicine that dries your mouth, it is important to use fluorides every day.

Meals & Snacks
Limit snacks, particularly those high in simple sugars, and eat a balanced diet. Every time you eat, bits of food become lodged in and around your teeth. This food provides fuel for the bacteria in plaque. The bacteria produce acid. Each time you eat food containing sugars or starches (complex sugars), your teeth are exposed to these acids. This occurs more often if you eat snacks and the food stays on your teeth for a while. These repeated acid attacks can break down the enamel surface of your teeth, leading to a cavity.

If you must snack, brush your teeth or chew sugarless gum afterward. Gums that are sweetened with xylitol can also help to reduce the amount of bacteria that cause tooth decay.

A balanced diet is also important. Not getting enough minerals and vitamins can affect your oral health, as well as your general health.

Tobacco Use
If you use tobacco in any form, quit. Smoking or using smokeless tobacco increases your risk of oral cancer, gingivitis, periodontitis and tooth decay. Using tobacco also contributes to bad breath and stains on your teeth.

Examine Your Mouth Regularly
Even if you visit your dentist regularly, you are in the best position to notice changes in your mouth. Your dentist and dental hygienist see you only a few times a year, but you can examine your mouth weekly to look for changes that might be of concern. Changes in your mouth that you should look for include:

• Swollen gums
• Chipped teeth
• Discolored teeth
• Sores or lesions on your gums, cheeks or tongue

Dental Visits
Visit the dental office regularly. Talk to your dentist about how often you should visit. A good rule of thumb is to schedule your vistas every six months. However, if you have a history of cavities or crown and bridge work, or are wearing braces, you should visit the dentist more often. Some people, such as diabetics or smokers, have more gum disease than the general population. They also should visit the dentist more often. People with suppressed immune systems also are more likely to have dental problems. Examples include people who are infected with HIV or are receiving cancer treatment. More frequent visits for these groups are important to maintain good oral health.