It’s time for a new year, new habits and new resolutions. January is the perfect time to create new habits that are healthy and that your teeth will thank you for in the future.
1. Brush Enough: How long are we supposed to brush our teeth? The ADA recommends brushing for at least two minutes, twice daily. Need help discovering how long is 2 minutes? Try listening to short song, cue up a two-minute timer on your phone to give yourself the time you need to thoroughly clean your teeth.
2. Change Your Toothbrush: An easily avoidable habit we can change is to switch out our toothbrush every 3-4 months.
3. Floss! Floss! Floss! Flossing is obviously a huge health benefit most people overlook. Like brushing, flossing must be done properly so that, when you reach between teeth, you actually get to the germs that are stuck there. Keep in mind the floss should rub against the teeth in a motion that creates a forward or backward 'C' shape, wrapping the floss around each tooth.
4. Stop Snacking: Ideally, you want to avoid snacking. If snacking is a big issue, be sure to brush your teeth after because it can allow food particles and sugar to remain on your teeth for too long, providing fuel for bacteria that feeds on it.
