If you have anxiety about going to the dentist, part of it may come from the possibility of unexpected bills. Regular dentist cleanings, getting cavities filled, and getting other issues addressed are essential to making sure your teeth are healthy. What if you could reduce the possibility of dental bills? A few small daily habits can reduce your dental bills, including expenses from fillings, root canals, or other treatments. Consider these small daily habits as a way to protect your teeth and gums, but also your wallet.
8 Small Daily Habits that Will Reduce Your Dental Bills
These small daily habits help to fight bacteria and tooth decay. At first, these habits might seem difficult, but think about how much you could be saving in dental care costs every time you use them. With a few small changes to your routine, you can feel good about going to the dentist and not have to worry about unexpected bills!
1. Twice Daily Brushing
Brushing your teeth in the morning and before bed with a fluoride toothpaste is the best way to protect your oral health. It removes plaque, prevents cavities, and keeps your gums healthy. Skipping a brushing session allows bacteria to build up, which can lead to decay and gum disease. Use a fluoride toothpaste to strengthen enamel and a soft-bristled brush to avoid damaging your gums. This simple two-minute habit is one of the easiest ways to reduce your dental bills. If you don’t brush regularly, or you often miss a session or two, you might be surprised at how much better your dental visits go when you make brushing a priority.
2. Flossing
You might not be convinced about the benefits of flossing, but there’s a reason dentists all agree that flossing is important. Flossing cleans the spaces between your teeth where your toothbrush can’t reach. Plaque buildup in these areas can lead to cavities and gum disease, which are expensive to treat. Gum disease is among the top causes of tooth loss in adults, and flossing is one of the best ways to prevent it. Gum disease is also related to a variety of other health issues, including cardiovascular disease, dementia, and cancer. Regular flossing reduces your risk of these issues and keeps your mouth healthier overall. Floss daily, even if it’s just a quick session—a little effort goes a long way.
3. Stop Teeth-Grinding
Grinding your teeth, also known as bruxism, can wear down enamel, cause sensitivity, and even crack teeth. Many people grind their teeth at night without realizing it, leading to significant damage over time. If you suspect you grind your teeth, talk to your dentist about getting a custom nightguard. While it’s an upfront investment, it’s much cheaper than repairing the damage caused by unchecked grinding.
4. Replace One Sugary Beverage With Water
Sugary drinks like soda contribute to tooth decay by feeding harmful bacteria in your mouth. Replacing just one sugary drink a day with water can significantly reduce your risk of cavities. Water also helps wash away food particles and keeps your mouth hydrated, which is crucial for saliva production. Saliva is your mouth’s natural defense against decay, so staying hydrated is key.
5. Replace One Sugary Snack With Vegetables
Sugary snacks stick to your teeth and provide fuel for bacteria to produce acid, which erodes enamel. By swapping out one sugary snack for raw vegetables like carrots, celery, or cucumbers, you’re giving your teeth a break. Vegetables are low in sugar and high in water content, which helps clean your teeth as you eat. Plus, the crunchiness stimulates saliva production, further protecting your teeth.
6. One Less Cigarette or Vape
Smoking and vaping are harmful to your oral health, increasing your risk of gum disease, tooth loss, and even oral cancer. Cutting back by even one cigarette or vape session a day can make a difference. Over time, reducing further or stopping your use entirely can vastly improve your gum health, freshen your breath, and lower your risk of costly dental procedures.
7. Replace Sugary Gum With Sugar-Free Gum
Chewing gum stimulates saliva production, which helps wash away food particles and neutralize acids in your mouth. However, sugary gum can do more harm than good. Switching to sugar-free gum, especially varieties containing xylitol, can protect your teeth from decay. Xylitol is a natural sweetener that reduces the growth of cavity-causing bacteria, making it a great alternative to sugary gum.
8. Use a Fluoride Mouthwash
Adding a fluoride mouthwash to your daily routine can provide an extra layer of protection against cavities. Fluoride strengthens enamel and helps repair early stages of decay, reducing your need for fillings or more extensive treatments. Swish for about a minute after brushing and flossing to maximize the benefits.
Don’t Forget: Regular Dental Checkups
While it might seem counterintuitive, seeing your dentist regularly can actually save you money in the long run. Professional cleanings and exams help catch problems early, when they’re easier and cheaper to treat. Skipping checkups often leads to more severe issues that require costly procedures. Aim for at least two visits a year to stay ahead of potential problems.
Adopting these small daily habits doesn’t just protect your teeth—it also protects your wallet. By investing a little time and effort into your oral health now, you can avoid painful and expensive dental problems later. Start with one or two habits and build from there. Your future self—and your bank account—will thank you.
Making an appointment with a BDG dentist is easy. Schedule an appointment online or call 702-388-8888 today.
