Here are our Top 10 ideas for Dental Resolutions. These resolutions are fun, important, easy to keep and they can lead to a lifetime of excellent health!
1. Get Rid of That UGLY Thing!
We are talking about your toothbrush, of course! Most people keep toothbrushes around, um, lets say… WAY TOO LONG. Not only do they become loaded with bacteria and other junk, the bristles simply wear out and do not do an effective job of cleaning your teeth anymore. The American Dental Association recommends a new toothbrush at least every three months, and we agree! If the bristles begin to fray or split before that… GET RID OF IT!!! And always change your toothbrush if you have been sick, the germs stay in your toothbrush and you can get sick again.
2. There’s Blood Coming Out of My WHAT??
If your eyes or ears were bleeding you would certainly see a doctor immediately. Well, the same is true with your gums. Brushing or flossing should not cause your gums to bleed at all. If your gums do bleed or if you see pink or red when you rinse, your gums are infected. Don’t put it off – call us right away!
3. Quiet. Quiet! QUIET!!!!!
Many of us suffer with spouses or other bed-mates that snore. Promise that you just won’t get frustrated and throw another shoe at them. Snoring can be a sign of sleep apnea, a potentially fatal condition where the brain does not receive enough oxygen at night. Let us know – we may be able to either fabricate a dental appliance to curtail snoring or make a referral to a specialist who can help.
4.Don’t Stand So Close To Me!
Maybe you have bad breath and are too embarrassed to do anything about it. Or maybe you find yourself constantly reaching for mints and gum because people seem to be always backing off when you speak. Don’t be ashamed – we are here to help! Bad breath frequently has dental causes – many of them are long term conditions that are very dangerous to your health (as well as your friendships). Please don’t be embarrassed – talk to us! We are here to help!
5. Get Wet!!!
One of the best things you can do for your mouth and body is to drink more water – and lots of it! Drinking helps to flush away particles from between your teeth and remove sticky plaque. Most Americans do not drink nearly enough water and are constantly dehydrated. Plus – this is a great time to get sodas, sports drinks, fancy coffee drinks and all of that other junk out of your life. Switching to water will help not just your dental health but your overall health as well! (also keep in mind that tap water is a good source of fluoride)
6. Brush Correctly
Most people stick a little toothpaste on a brush and smear it around their teeth, but don’t do an effective job of combating gum disease and tooth decay. One of the most important things you can do while brushing is to angle the bristles of the brush so that they clean the space where your teeth and gums meet. Be thorough yet gentle, and take your time. We will be glad to show you how to brush correctly! And if your toothbrush has bristles that are split, frayed or deformed, you are probably brushing WAY TOO HARD!!
7. Get Off Your Butt
Tobacco products are the leading cause of oral cancer, a deadly disease which kills roughly one person every hour. Smoking can also cause heart disease, emphysema, pregnancy issues and a host of chronic illnesses. Please also be aware that this nasty habit stains your teeth, increases the risk of gum disease, and makes your breath smell like the monkey cage at the zoo. There are so many reasons to quit, make this the year you finally kick this smelly, dirty, disgusting habit. Your loved ones will thank you for saving your life!
8. What is That Stuff??
It comes in a small plastic box, it’s very thin, and sometimes it’s used to hang pictures. Yes – it’s called Dental Floss, and we know that chances are you don’t use it on a regular basis. But flossing is the best way to remove plaque, bacteria and particles from between your teeth as well as cleaning areas of your gums that can’t otherwise be reached. The fact is, if you aren’t flossing every day, there is gross stuff growing in your mouth. If you would like some instruction on proper flossing technique (it’s easy once you know how) and some encouragement, just let us know.
9. Stop By To Say Hello
Okay – Stop by to do even more than say hello! Keeping up with your regular visits is the key to keeping your teeth and gums healthy, getting screened for oral cancer, and preventing problems before they get to big (and costly!!) If your busy lifestyle has caused you to get off schedule, please give us a call right away so that we can get you back on track?
10. Tell Your Friends!!
At Lilly Family Dentistry, we are fortunate to have a busy practice and enjoy providing our patients with the best quality dental care possible. But we will always make room for your family, friends, co-workers or anyone else who would like to experience the great things we have to offer. Even though we are busy we will always make room for more people like you! Please have them give us a call at 712.239.5125. You’ll be giving them the best gift of all – the gift of health!