Blog article

New year, new smile: 5 tips for setting dental health resolutions in 2025

By HBF

3 minutes

16 February 2025

As the saying goes – new year, new you.

While fitness and finances often take centre stage, don’t forget about your dental health. A healthy smile doesn’t just boost your confidence – it’s also a key part of your overall wellbeing. In this blog we explore how you can make 2025 the year of your best smile yet.

1. Assess your current dental health

Before setting new goals, take a moment to reflect on your current dental habits. Are you brushing and flossing consistently? Have you noticed bleeding gums or sensitivity that might need attention? A dental check-up is a great place to start. Your dentist can provide personalised advice and help you identify areas to improve.

Check out our blog, How to properly brush and floss your teeth, for more tips!

2. Set specific goals for your oral care

Small, actionable steps make all the difference when it comes to improving your dental health. Here are some simple resolutions to consider:

Brush better: Commit to brushing twice a day for two minutes with fluoride toothpaste.
Floss daily: While it’s no one’s favourite chore, flossing removes plaque and food particles that brushing can’t reach, reducing your risk of cavities and gum disease.

Need help sticking to your goals? Set reminders or try a dental health app to keep you on track, like Brush DJ, Oral-B, or Disney Magic Timer for kids. With Brush DJ those two minutes fly by – trust us!

3. Invest in the right dental tools

The right tools can make a big difference in your dental routine.

Upgrade your toothbrush: If you’re using a manual toothbrush, consider switching to an electric one. “Electric oscillating head toothbrushes have been shown by research to clean the most effectively and efficiently.¹ It doesn’t mean that you can’t clean well enough with a manual toothbrush, but you are far more likely to clean well using an electric oscillating head brush. If you prefer a manual brush, opt for a soft-bristled toothbrush with a small head that can easily reach all areas of your mouth,” recommends Dr Troy McGowan, HBF Dental EGM - Clinical Excellence.
Pick the best products: Choose toothpaste with fluoride to strengthen enamel and a mouthwash tailored to your needs, like anti-cavity or anti-gingivitis formulas. If flossing feels tricky, try floss picks or interdental brushes to make the process easier.

4. Make regular dental check-ups a priority

Routine check-ups are key to maintaining a healthy smile. “We generally recommend patients visit their dentist every six months,” says Dr Bee Hong Tan, a dentist from HBF Dental.

“Regular check-ups allow dentists to closely monitor your dental health and pick up any concerns early. It’s also a good opportunity to remove any plaque and calculus that has not been removed with regular tooth brushing.”

If you’re experiencing any issues, like tooth sensitivity or discomfort, don’t wait to see your dentist. Addressing concerns promptly can prevent them from becoming bigger (and more expensive) problems later on.

5. Explore professional treatments to enhance your smile

Looking for ways to take your smile to the next level?

Teeth whitening: This involves professional treatments, such as in-office bleaching or take-home whitening kits, to remove stains and discoloration, resulting in a noticeably brighter smile.
Orthodontic treatments: Options like braces or clear aligners can correct crooked teeth and bite alignment issues, leading to a straighter and easier to maintain smile.

“Like any other medical procedure, cosmetic dentistry requires careful consultation and planning,” says Dr Troy. Before undergoing any treatment, it’s important to discuss your goals, expectations, and budget with a qualified dentist experienced in providing cosmetic procedures.

Sources:

¹ Cochrane Library - Powered versus manual toothbrushing for oral health

Disclaimers:

^For eligible HBF members with extras cover at HBF Dental Centres. Check-up and clean include comprehensive examination, scale and clean, fluoride treatment and up to 2 x-rays, as clinically necessary. Limit of one visit per person per calendar year, waiting periods and other exclusions apply. Learn more at hbfdental.com.au

*Eligible members can claim one fully covered scale and clean per calendar year when provided by a Member Plus dental provider. Benefit is payable subject to annual limit. Percentage benefits apply only when the provider charges in accordance with the Member Plus schedule fee. If the provider charges above the Member Plus schedule fee, you will have a larger out of pocket cost. Member Plus dental arrangements available in WA, NSW, VIC, QLD, and ACT only.

This article contains general information only and does not take into account the health, personal situation or needs of any person. In conjunction with your GP or treating health care professional, please consider whether the information is suitable for you and your personal circumstances.