A new year is here and it’s time to make a plan to keep our smiles looking their best in 2024. With some simple habits, we can all have healthy, beautiful grins. Let’s talk about some tips to keep your smile bright this year.  

Brush & Floss Every Day

Brushing and flossing are the superheroes of dental care. Make sure to brush your teeth twice every day – once in the morning and once before bed. Brushing removes food particles and plaque that can harm your teeth. Don’t forget to floss at least once a day too. Flossing removes stubborn food bits and plaque that hide between your teeth.  

Choose a soft toothbrush that feels comfortable in your hand. Replace your toothbrush every three to four months since old bristles don’t clean as well. Pick a tasty toothpaste flavor you like so brushing is more fun. Play your favorite song while you brush to make sure you brush for the full two minutes.

Visit the Dentist Regularly

Dr. Ra is your teeth’s best friend! See us twice a year for a cleaning and exam. Regular visits allow us to catch any issues early before they become big problems.

Let us know if you feel nervous. We want you to feel comfortable and will help you relax during appointments. Remind yourself that any discomfort during cleanings is temporary and helps keep your smile healthy.

Snack Smart 

We all love snacks, so choose healthy ones whenever possible. Fruits, vegetables, cheese, plain yogurt and nuts are tooth-friendly picks. They not only taste great, but also help clean teeth naturally. 

Limit sugary treats, candy, baked goods, and sugary drinks. Sugar feeds the bacteria that cause tooth decay and cavities. If you do have sweets, drink water afterward and brush as soon as possible to wash sugar away.

Drink Plenty of Water 

Water washes away leftover food particles and keeps your mouth comfortable. As a bonus, it has zero sugar unlike juices and sodas. Carry a reusable water bottle with you to make drinking water easy. Add a slice of lemon or lime if you want flavor. Drink water after meals and snacks to rinse your mouth.  

Protect Teeth During Sports

If you play sports, wear a mouthguard during games and practice to shield your teeth from injuries. Mouthguards are must-haves for sports like soccer, basketball, baseball, and more where balls or equipment could hit your face. Getting hit in the mouth can crack, knock out, or shift teeth if you’re not protected. Ask us about custom mouthguards for the best fit.

Avoid Smoking 

Smoking stains teeth yellow, causes bad breath and leads to gum disease or even tooth loss. If you don’t smoke, don’t start. If you do smoke, make a plan to quit – your smile will thank you!

Be Gentle With Your Teeth

Treat your teeth gently. Avoid cracking nuts or opening bottles with your teeth, as those are jobs for nutcrackers and bottle openers. Also, don’t chew on ice or hard candy. These habits can crack teeth. Take good care of your teeth and they’ll last a lifetime.

In 2024, let’s make our smiles shine brighter than ever! Use these tips to keep your grin healthy, happy, and ready to show off. Remember, your smile deserves some TLC!

Don’t forget to schedule your next checkup at Touch of Smiles Dental Care. Call us today at 410-498-8472 to schedule an appointment. You can also make an appointment online.