The new year has just arrived, and if you’re struggling to stick to your resolutions, you’re not alone! Many people establish healthy goals for themselves, like exercising more or eating more wholesome foods to support their overall and oral condition. However, it’s often much easier to set positive aspirations than to follow through with changed behaviors.
If you have a sweet tooth you can’t help but indulge despite your best intentions, continue reading for 3 pointers that can help you safeguard your smile!
Tip #1: Make Deliberate Decisions
Did you know that researchers estimate that people in the United States consume an average of more than 300% of the daily recommended amount of added sugar? Having self-control is hard, and consuming this sweet ingredient releases dopamine, a feel-good neurotransmitter that can reduce stress and promote a sense of well-being, making it quite addictive.
Unfortunately, it also attracts bacteria that wear through your enamel to cause dental problems like cavities, gum disease, and other injuries. If avoiding sugar altogether is impossible, you can make conscious eating choices to reduce your intake. For instance, you can opt for a Greek yogurt with chocolate chips instead of eating a chocolate bar the next time you get a craving. You can still enjoy the sweets while simultaneously providing your teeth and gums with the calcium they need to remain strong.
Tip #2: Brush Often
Regularly removing plaque from your teeth and gums ensures that there’s nothing for bacteria to cling to, reducing your vulnerability to decay, disease, and damage. Brushing and flossing twice daily, both morning and night, is essential to any regular at-home dental hygiene routine. However, if you know that you tend to overindulge in candy and treats, you might want to carry supplies with you so you can clean your mouth on-the-go.
For instance, you can build a care kit that has a travel-sized toothbrush, a small container of toothpaste, and floss so that you can freshen up after snacking. The more frequently you clean your mouth, the less likely germs are to cause problems.
Tip #3: Chew Sugar-Free Gum
Saliva is your body’s natural dental defense because it has a nearly neutral pH balance to counteract possible acid damage. Plus, it keeps your mouth moist to rinse away unwanted microbes, leftover food, or other debris.
You can maintain your teeth by chewing sugar-free gum after eating unhealthy foods because it triggers saliva production. If you choose a brand that’s sweetened with the ingredient xylitol, it can even inhibit the growth of cavity-causing bacteria to protect your grin.
These simple changes can help you reduce your sugar consumption so you can meet your goals in the coming year!
Meet the Author
Dr. Moji Chandy has 18+ years of experience helping people of all ages improve their lives by enhancing their dental condition. She earned her DDS from NYU and is dedicated to furthering her knowledge with continuing education classes, seminars, and symposiums. She is a trusted member of several professional organizations, including the American Dental Association, so you know your grin is in good hands. She takes the time to get to know you, then customizes treatment plans to meet your unique needs. If you’re worried about cavities, you can request a checkup on the website or call (972) 492-6700.