This time of year, many of us find ourselves reflecting on the year behind and setting some goals for the year ahead. More often than not, those goals include improvements in health, so why not add some resolutions to improve oral health too?
Perhaps that looks like hydrating more regularly, quitting smoking, cutting back on sugar intake, flossing consistently, brushing intentionally, scheduling appointments frequently or reducing the consumption of acidic drinks. Progress is progress, so even small steps towards your goals is success. Be patient with yourself, and most importantly, be consistent; most research hypothesizes it takes 2 months to establish new habits, so find a way to keep track of your changes or grab a friend that can keep you accountable to your set plans.
Your teeth and gums have put in a lot of hours this year, so treat them with care by resolving to take steps to improve your oral health. The decisions you make now will go a long way to give you the beautiful, healthy smile you want for years to come. And if one day goes off the rails, as it inevitably does, get back on the train the next day and remember why you made your goals in the first place!