New Year, New You: 4 Tips for a Healthier Smile in 2021

As we prepare to say goodbye to 2020, you may be wondering if there is something you can do to ensure your smile is ready for the new year. No matter how you’ve spent this last year, there are ways to change your routine and seek helpful treatment to transform into a new you for 2021. Read on to hear from a dentist in Arlington who shares a few resolutions you can keep to ensure your teeth and gums remain on a healthier track next year.

1.      Spend Time Flossing

When performing your morning or nighttime oral hygiene routine, you may convince yourself that brushing and rinsing are all you need to do. This misinformation will only lead to more serious problems in the future if you continue to avoid the crucial step of flossing. Although it requires a few more minutes of your time, using waxed dental floss will help to remove plaque from in-between your teeth. These areas of your smile are known to be havens for bacteria to accumulate and break down tooth enamel. Start 2021 the right way by incorporating flossing into your routine. Your dentist will be pleased you did when you arrive for your next checkup and cleaning.

2.      Adopt a Healthier Diet

Much like everyone else, the desire to lose weight may be on your list of New Year’s Resolutions. But while you’re working on your waistline, the changes you make to your diet can also improve your teeth and gums. By swapping out sodas for water and sugar for fruits and vegetables, you will not only notice a smaller number on the scale, but you’ll discover your smile becomes stronger and less prone to cavities. Healthier alternatives like leafy greens, lean proteins, low-fat dairy, fruits, vegetables, and drinking plenty of water can improve gum health and decrease your chances of developing tooth decay over time. Not to mention, you will consume a more nutrient-rich diet that positively impacts your smile.

3.      Consider Cosmetic Dentistry

If stains, chips, cracks, minor gaps or alignments, or missing teeth are not what you want to carry into 2021, consider talking to your dentist about available cosmetic dentistry solutions. It may be possible to have porcelain veneers cover your imperfections or undergo teeth whitening to blast away stubborn stains and discoloration. No matter the option, your dentist can recommend the right solution for you so that when you wake up on January 1, you can not only feel better about it being a new year, but you can also feel great about the way you look.

4.      Quit Smoking…For Good

Whether you’ve tried quitting multiple times in the past or this is your first time, the new year is the perfect time to finally say goodbye to smoking and using tobacco. With COVID-19 continuing to pose a serious health problem throughout the world, it is now more important than ever to kick the habit. Also, the inhaling of nicotine can continue to stain and discolor your teeth, which will only leave you feeling down about your appearance. Research cessation services in your area to help you quit. And don’t forget to visit your dentist to inquire about teeth whitening or use one of the many kinds of toothpaste found on your local drug store shelf.

Everyone’s ready to say goodbye to 2020, so if you’re ready to do the same, make sure your smile is ready for 2021 by leaving all the bad habits and imperfections behind.

About the Author
Dr. James Gray has been practicing in the field of dentistry for more than 30 years. Earning a bachelor’s degree in biochemistry from the University of Texas, he went on to graduate from the University of Texas Dental School at San Antonio. Dr. Gray and his team want to provide all patients with the ability to achieve healthier, more beautiful smiles, so if you’re looking for ways to improve the look of your teeth and gums before the end of the year, visit our website or call (817) 460-4131.