The New Year is a time for new beginnings. It’s a time to set resolutions and goals for the year ahead. If you’re looking for a healthy smile in 2023, then the Clauss Orthodontics team has the perfect New Year’s resolutions for you! In this blog post, we’ll list a few simple tips that will help you cultivate some new smile-loving habits. Let’s start planning your orthodontic New Year’s resolutions!
Stay on top of your checkups.
If you’re in the middle of orthodontics treatment, visiting Dr. Clauss regularly ensures that you’ll be walking into 2023 with an unstoppable smile. Make sure to schedule checkup appointments to ensure your treatment is going according to plan. This way, any potential dental or orthodontic issues can be caught early on and dealt with quickly!
Stick to a consistent oral health routine.
New year, new habits! Even if you started slacking on your oral health during the holidays, you always have the chance to start fresh. Staying on top of your daily routine will help reduce the risk of cavities, gum disease, and other oral health issues. At Clauss Orthodontics, we provide all our patients with these basic oral health tips and tricks to keep your smile looking bright:
- Brush 2-3 times a day, ideally once after each meal, at least once in the morning, and before bed.
- Floss or use an interdental cleaner every night.
- If you currently have braces or another orthodontic appliance, use additional tools such as a Waterpik to remove any stuck food debris between your teeth and aligners.
- Avoid or reduce sugary or acidic foods and drinks that can cause cavities or enamel erosion.
- Use antimicrobial mouthwash, preferably one with fluoride, at night or after meals.
- For the best results, replace your toothbrush every 3-4 months or after recovering from an illness.
Follow Dr. Clauss’ instructions and guidelines.
If you’re undergoing any orthodontic treatment or wearing braces or aligners, follow all instructions from your orthodontist. Wearing your appliances as directed will help ensure you get the best results and reduce potential risks or complications. Dr. Clauss or one of our orthodontic assistants can walk you through the best way to care for your braces or aligners, so take advantage of any advice or tips we provide.
Attention aligners patients: Practice proper care!
Make sure to brush or soak your aligners or retainers every day and store them in the case provided when not in use. A simple retainer or denture solution can help remove food or other debris that accumulates. It’s also essential to keep them away from heat sources that can warp them and change their shape.
Keep up with your regular cleaning appointments.
Sometimes, it takes more than the most consistent oral hygiene routine to ensure a healthy smile. That’s why it’s essential to visit your dentist for regular professional cleanings. Not only will these help remove any plaque or tartar buildup, but these appointments ensure that you leave cavities and other dental issues in the past!
A New Year means a new smile with Clauss Orthodontics.
It’s never too late to start giving your oral health the love it deserves! By following these easy tips and sticking to your New Year’s resolutions for a healthy smile, you’ll be well on your way to achieving the pearly whites of your dreams. Contact us today or schedule an appointment online to make this your best year yet.