Begin the New Year With Dental Habits That Actually Make a Difference
January is a natural reset for many people in Brentwood and West Los Angeles. New routines begin, health goals feel fresh, and wellness becomes a priority. This makes it the perfect time to build dental habits that support a healthier, brighter smile all year long.
At Dental Design of Brentwood, we see patients every January who want to improve their smile, strengthen their oral health, or finally commit to dental habits they can stick to. The good news? You don’t need a complicated routine. With a few intentional steps, your smile can look and feel better than ever in the new year.
Refresh Your Daily Routine
Strong oral health starts with consistency. Many patients are surprised by how much their daily dental habits influence gum health, breath freshness, and cavity prevention.
For a healthier routine, focus on:
- Brushing twice a day using a fluoride toothpaste
- Flossing once a day to prevent inflammation
- Brushing gently along the gumline
- Replacing your toothbrush (or brush head) every 3 months
If you’re unsure whether your current technique is effective, our dental hygienists can help you personalize your routine during your next visit.
Start the Year With a Professional Cleaning
One of the best dental habits you can create for the new year is scheduling regular cleanings. Even with great brushing, plaque and tartar accumulate in areas that are hard to reach at home.
A January cleaning helps you:
- Start the year plaque-free
- Reduce gum tenderness
- Prevent cavities
- Get customized recommendations for better dental habits
If it has been more than six months since your last cleaning, now is the ideal moment to get back on schedule.
Upgrade Your Dental Habits With Better Tools
Your tools matter just as much as your technique. Brentwood residents often ask which products help them maintain healthier teeth throughout the year.
Here’s what we recommend:
- Electric toothbrushes for a more effective clean
- Fluoride toothpaste to strengthen enamel
- Alcohol-free mouthwash for gentle gum support
And if whitening is part of your New Year goal, start with professional teeth whitening rather than store-bought strips. Professional whitening at Dental Design of Brentwood offers safer, brighter, and more even results — and is a smart dental habit for anyone who wants long-term cosmetic improvement.
Small Changes for a Brighter Smile
A bright smile is a common January goal. The holiday season can leave stains behind, but the right dental habits can help maintain your results.
Simple—yet powerful—habits include:
- Rinsing after coffee, tea, or wine
- Using a straw for darker drinks
- Avoiding frequent snacking
- Choosing a whitening toothpaste between appointments
If your goal is a noticeably whiter smile for the new year, we recommend scheduling professional whitening first, then maintaining your brightness with healthy daily habits.
Protect Your Teeth From Stress-Related Grinding
Stress and new routines often lead to clenching or grinding—two habits that damage teeth over time. This is especially common in busy areas like Brentwood and West LA.
Signs of grinding include:
- Jaw tightness in the morning
- Chipped or worn edges
- Headaches
- Increased tooth sensitivity
A custom nightguard is one of the smartest dental habits you can adopt this year. It protects your enamel, preserves cosmetic work, and prevents tension buildup.
Improve Gum Health With Simple Daily Dental Habits
Healthy gums are essential for a healthy smile. At the start of the year, many patients notice bleeding or tenderness and assume something serious is wrong. Often, adjusting your dental habits is enough to bring your gums back to health.
Focus on:
- Daily flossing
- Gentle brushing along the gumline
- Rinsing with an antimicrobial mouthwash
- Scheduling regular cleanings
If your gums remain swollen or sensitive, our team can help identify whether early gum disease is present and offer treatment before it progresses.
Make 2024 the Year Your Dental Habits Stick
Your new smile starts with the dental habits you build today. Whether your goals include healthier gums, whiter teeth, fewer cavities, or simply more confidence, the new year is the perfect moment to create routines that last.
At Dental Design of Brentwood, we’re here to support your healthiest year yet.
👉 Call (310) 820-5703 or schedule your visit online to start the new year with dental habits that truly transform your smile.
