As you jump into the new year, you may be setting resolutions to follow for yourself. You might think of some that benefit your overall health, but don’t forget to include your smile in it, too! There is no time like now to get the stronger grin you deserve. Thankfully, it can be as easy as building the right habits! Here are five you can stick to during 2026 to keep your teeth and gums in great shape.
1.) Brush Your Teeth Correctly
It’s important you brush twice every day, when you wake up and before you go to bed. While you may be tempted to scrub quickly to save some time, it’s important you do it for two full minutes with fluoride toothpaste. This will help get as much plaque as possible off your smile, while also fortifying your enamel. That way, you avoid developing oral health issues like cavities.
2.) Don’t Forget to Floss Every Day
Brushing only cleans about 60% of your mouth, with the rest being taken care of by flossing. You should do this habit once daily, as it can get debris and bacteria between your teeth and underneath your gumline. For some, it may be easy to forget this step, so consider setting a reminder on your phone or putting a note on your mirror.
3.) Stop Using Tobacco
If you’re a smoker or chew tobacco, then you may be putting your smile in harm’s way. These can leave you at a higher risk of periodontal disease, which is an infection in your gums. The early stages of this condition can make the pink soft tissues of your mouth noticeably red, inflamed, or bleed when you brush and floss. When it’s left untreated, serious complications like gum recession and tooth loss can happen.
4.) Eat a Balanced Diet
While eating balanced foods may already be a resolution you made, a nutritious diet can help boost your oral health in several ways. You will be able to support your immune system, allowing it to fight off infections and inflammation in your mouth. Some great options that can keep your teeth and gums strong are items rich in calcium, phosphorus, and vitamins A, C, and D.
5.) Schedule Visits to Your Dentist
You should also be keeping up with visits to your dentist regularly. By getting checkups and cleanings consistently, you will be able to remove hardened plaque while also keeping up with any worrying signs in your mouth. If there are any issues, then you can get early treatment toward a stronger smile you love. That way, you start the new year with a grin you aren’t worried about.
About the Author
Dr. Eduart Shkurti earned his dental degree from the University of Southern California. He is dedicated to helping the Astoria community throughout their oral healthcare journey with preventive care. By staying proactive about any dental problems, you can ensure your grin is in great shape for the new year and beyond. If you want to start 2026 with a stronger smile, schedule an appointment or call Dr. Shkurti’s office at (718) 806-1662.