Everyone makes resolutions for the new year, however, how many follow through? While making a change for the new year can be difficult, sticking to your resolutions is worth it when the end result is better health.

If your new year’s resolution is better oral hygiene, these five tips can help you remain diligent:

Scheduling an Appointment

If you haven’t been to a dentist in a while, you’re not alone. A study done by the American Dental Association (ADA) has shown that one-third of people in the U.S. do not go to the dentist on a regular basis.

However, seeing your dentist every six months is one of the most important things you can do. In fact, conditions such as bleeding gums and hypersensitivity of your teeth are signs that you need to see your dentist. In order to make the process of scheduling an appointment easier, always book your following appointment before you leave the dentist office. A lot of dentists send out automated reminders in your email or call you a day before the appointment, so make sure to respond if yours does so.

Start Flossing

While brushing your teeth twice a day for two minutes promotes good oral hygiene, it’s not always enough. To completely remove food stuck between your teeth., you’ll need to floss as well. Even if you’ve never flossed before, the beginning of the new year is the perfect time to start a new habit. To make it easier to remember, put your container of floss right next to or on top of your toothpaste. Who says you can only floss at home? Put an extra supply of floss in your bag or work drawer so that you can floss on the go!

Lay Off the Sugar

According to BMC Public Health, a study has linked the amount of sugar a person eats to the amount of tooth decay they have. With that said, laying off the sugar can significantly cut the risk of tooth decay. Obviously, the most effective way to cut back on the sugar is to refrain from buying sugary foods and drinks. There are healthier alternatives such as drinking seltzer instead of soda and eating fruit instead of candy to satisfy your sweet tooth.

Stop Smoking

Research from the Center for Disease Control has shown that people who smoke are at higher risk for gum disease as well as other health issues. For some people, giving up smoking isn’t an easy thing to do, but don’t worry.

Follow these tips to help you get started:

• Set up a date to get rid of the habit
• Dispose of all the tobacco products you have
• Ask for the support of your friends and family

Again, giving up a habit like smoking is just as difficult as giving up drinking, which is also bad for your teeth. However, once you do, you’re going to notice a massive difference in not only the appearance of your teeth but your overall health as well.

Eat Healthier Foods

In addition to reducing your sugar intake, try incorporating a variety of healthier foods into your diet. For example, not only are dairy products rich in calcium, but moderate consumption can improve your oral health. According to Delta Dental, foods like soups and sugar-free popsicles are also beneficial as they promote saliva production. The saliva can help wash away the plaque and other food particles.

Sticking to your resolutions is easier than you think. Think big but start slow. Incorporate small changes into your daily routine to improve both your oral health and overall well-being.