Now that we’re halfway through the month of January, how is your New Year’s resolution going? Sticking to resolutions is tough. In fact, only 8% of people actually keep their resolutions. If you set a New Year’s resolution to take better care of your dental health this year, here are three easy ways to not become next year’s statistic.

1. Experiment with Different Toothbrushes & Toothpastes

Brushing your teeth twice a day is an important way to make sure that you’re properly maintaining clean and healthy teeth and gums, but using the same type of toothbrush and toothpaste year after year can make your daily dental care routine stale. If you use a manual toothbrush, give an electric toothbrush a try. Not only are electric toothbrushes gentler on the gums, but they can also be more effective at cleaning your teeth and are fun to use! If your minty toothpaste is getting boring, try out different flavors like ginger, fennel, and licorice. Try a flavored floss as well for an added bonus to your dental routine!

2. Eat More Delicious, Healthy Snacks

If you want to get in better shape this new year, know that eating healthy isn’t just a good way to lose weight—it’s good for your teeth, too. The best part is the foods that are good for your teeth happen to be delicious ones, including nuts, yogurt and cheese, apples, carrots, and leafy greens. Try turkey and cheese lettuce wraps or Greek yogurt with mixed berries and just a touch of honey for tooth-friendly, healthy snacks.

3. Schedule a Dental Exam

Sometimes it’s hard to know exactly what you need to improve in order to have a healthier smile. Your dentist has just the tools and knowledge to detect any issues that you may have but may not know about, like cavities, early stage gum disease, or potentially problematic bite issues. They can also recommend the best cosmetic procedure for you if you want a whiter, straighter smile. Schedule a cleaning and examination every six months to make sure your teeth are in tip-top shape.

Don’t break your dental New Year’s resolutions this year! Our team at Mission Hills Family Dental is here to help you maintain your beautiful smile. If you’re planning your first-ever visit to our practice, be sure to check out our new patient special and see the difference with our services today!