Everyone has a different approach to New Year’s resolutions, but one thing that everyone can agree on is that oral health is important. The last thing you need is a toothache or other oral health problems in 2018, so start thinking about a few steady changes you can make to improve your oral health. Try going with some of these New Year’s resolutions this year for a healthier you and healthier tooth. Your smile will thank you!

Resolve to Floss Daily

Sure, you already brush twice a day, but brushing just isn’t enough. You don’t get between the teeth very well when you brush, so if you’re not flossing, you’re letting plaque build up between teeth, which can lead to tooth decay and other problems. When you’re pressed for time, it’s easy to just skip a day here and there, but failing to floss can cost you big time in the future. Need help sticking to a daily flossing routine? Grab floss picks to make flossing easier. They’re easy to carry along with you too, so you can floss even when you’re on the go.

Determine to Change Your Toothbrush

How long have you had your current toothbrush? Probably too long. Decide you’re going to change your toothbrush every three months in 2018. Your toothbrush can harbor a lot of bacteria, especially if you’re covering your toothbrush. Bristles begin to erode over time as well, which means your toothbrush becomes less effective over time. Grab a new one every three months and you’ll enjoy better results when you brush.

Eat Healthier for Your Teeth

Choosing healthier fare is great for your overall health, and it’s also a great choice for healthier teeth. Reduce the acidic and sugary foods you eat and you’ll reduce enamel damage and the risk of cavities. Some foods can actually improve oral health, such as crunchy veggies and cheese. If you think you’ll have a tough time sticking with healthier fare, make sure you invest in healthy snacks like cheese sticks, carrots, yogurt, and celery. Prepare your snacks in advance. If you make healthy foods easy to grab and go, you’ll find it easier to make healthy snack choices instead of grabbing junk food.

Start Drinking More Water

You probably know that drinking plenty of water is important to your overall health, and drinking more water can also benefit your teeth. When you drink water, it stimulates the production of saliva, which can wash away bacteria and food particles that can be responsible for causing gum disease and tooth decay. Do you have a tough time getting those 64 recommended ounces of water in daily? Start carrying a reusable bottle with you, refilling it with water throughout your day. You can use apps to remind you to drink water during your day. If you don’t like plain water, add fruits or veggies to water to add a pop of flavor.

Eat Less Sugar

There is a link between the amount of sugar you eat and the amount of tooth decay you have, so if you want to reduce your risk of tooth decay, make a resolution to cut back on the sugar you eat this year. An easy way to eat less sugar is to limit the sugary treats you eat. Avoiding sugary drinks like sodas can also help. Look at labels when you buy foods, since you’ll find sugar lurking in some sneaky places.

Remember Routine Dental Visits and Cleanings

Even if you’re doing a great job at home with your dental hygiene, resolve to make sure you actually remember those routine dental visits and cleanings this year. Regular cleanings get plaque off teeth that you can’t get with your toothbrush. Regular dental visits also ensure that your dentist can find any problems that you may not be able to see before they become big problems. Catching oral health problems early make them easier and cheaper to treat. Make sure you stick to this resolution by going ahead and booking your appointments for the coming year, asking for reminders by mail, email, or phone so you don’t forget.