New Year Resolutions for Better Oral Health You Should Definitely Keep

With a fresh year comes the promise of new beginnings. But did you know that most New Year’s Resolutions are out of the window by the second week of January. We’ve got one that you can stick with all year. At Tecumseh Ridge Dental, we believe that a healthy smile is more than just a cosmetic asset—it’s a gateway to your overall well-being. Let’s break down some resolutions that go beyond brushing and flossing.

Resolution #1: Commit to Comprehensive Oral Care

We all know the basics: brush twice a day, floss regularly, and visit the dentist every six months. But what if you took it a step further? Comprehensive oral care means addressing not just the surface issues, but also the underlying ones.

If you’ve been putting off treatments like fillings, crowns, or even orthodontic corrections, now is the time to take action. Dr. Wheatley and the team at Tecumseh Ridge Dental are here to help you plan out a treatment schedule that works for you, ensuring that nothing stands in the way of your best smile.

Pro tip: Schedule your first check-up and dental cleaning of the year early, and use it to set a plan for the next 12 months. Dr. Wheatley can help prioritize what needs attention now and what can wait, making it easier to commit to the process.

Resolution #2: Upgrade Your Diet for Better Oral Health

Healthy eating resolutions aren’t just about weight loss—they can do wonders for your teeth and gums, too. Incorporating foods rich in calcium, phosphorus, and vitamins C and D helps strengthen enamel, reduce inflammation, and promote gum health.

Limit sugary snacks and acidic beverages such as sodas, which can erode enamel over time. Unfortunately, we see many cavities and decay that could have been avoided by instead choosing water or reaching for crunchy fruits and vegetables like apples and carrots, which can naturally help clean your teeth. We understand colas and other sodas are a yummy treat, so if you have one, please brush after consumption. Tecumseh Ridge Dental can offer personalized dietary suggestions based on your unique oral health needs. Learn more about the link between nutrition and oral health.

Pro tip: If you’re a fan of coffee, tea, or wine, consider discussing whitening options with Dr. Wheatley. These beverages are notorious for staining teeth, and a professional cleaning or whitening treatment can give you a brighter smile to match your healthier diet. But a healthy smile goes beyond cosmetics. If you have questions about specific foods and their impacts on your dental health, please bring it up at your next appointment.

Resolution #3: Overcome Dental Anxiety—For Good

If you’ve ever felt a knot in your stomach at the thought of a dental visit, you’re not alone. Dental anxiety is common, but it doesn’t have to be a barrier to your oral health. At Tecumseh Ridge Dental, we specialize in making your experience as comfortable and anxiety-free as possible. From gentle techniques and clear communication to sedation options for more complex procedures, we’ll ensure that every visit is stress-free.

Pro tip: Start by simply talking to us about your fears. Dr. Wheatley and his team are great listeners, and together, we can create a care plan that addresses both your oral health needs and your comfort level. Learn what Relaxation Dentistry means to us.

Resolution #4: Follow Through with Complex Treatments

When it comes to dental work, people often put themselves on the back-burner. There always seems something more pressing than taking care of an underlying issue. Want a more confident smile? Feels like a luxury? Some people even start dental treatments only to put them on hold when life gets busy. Whether it’s a half-finished implant process, delayed orthodontic work, or uncompleted gum therapy, following through on complex treatments is crucial for long-term results. More importantly, once you take care of it, you won’t regret it.

At Tecumseh Ridge Dental, we understand that life happens. That’s why we offer flexible scheduling and offer Care Credit to help you complete your treatment without added stress. By sticking to your treatment plan, you’ll improve your smile’s appearance and protect your long-term oral health. Invest in yourself. It always pays off.

Pro tip: Use the start of the year as an opportunity to revisit any incomplete treatments and create a realistic timeline for finishing them. Dr. Wheatley is happy to walk you through what to expect, so you can stay motivated.

Resolution #5: Make Prevention a Priority

Preventive care is the foundation of lasting oral health. Beyond regular cleanings, this means paying attention to early warning signs like gum sensitivity, persistent bad breath, or minor tooth pain.

Tecumseh Ridge Dental offers advanced preventive services, from digital X-rays that detect problems early to fluoride treatments and sealants that can protect your teeth from decay. Staying proactive saves you money in the long run and spares you from more invasive procedures down the road. Routine prevention and cleanings are also generally covered by your insurance twice a year.

Pro tip: Set reminders for your bi-annual check-ups in your calendar now, or better yet – schedule online or call us at 405-857-6453 and schedule both cleanings for the year at the same time. Life gets busy, but a quick cleaning and exam every six months can make all the difference.

Start the Year with a Smile

Making resolutions is easy, but keeping them takes commitment and support. At Tecumseh Ridge Dental in Norman, we’re here to partner with you on your journey to better oral health. Whether it’s completing that long-overdue treatment, upgrading your diet, or simply making it through the door despite dental anxiety, we’re ready to help you succeed.

This year, don’t just make resolutions—make ones that matter. Because a healthier, brighter smile isn’t just a goal; it’s a resolution worth keeping.

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