The caring team at Eagle River Dentistry, led by Dr. Shelly Raichart, wants you to put your best foot forward this new year and flash a mouthful of healthy teeth for all to see.

We have advice that may surprise you about taking the best care of your mouth during the holiday season and throughout the entire year, and it’s surprisingly simple. Whether you’re in need of preventive care or require cosmetic or restorative services, we’re here and eager to partner in your care.

Getting the smile you desire is 50% you though. Put in the effort, and you’re sure to look great for your next big event, as well as your average day.

1. Great oral hygiene: the basis for a beautiful smile
You really can’t expect much from your smile if you don’t put in the self-care effort. This means brushing and flossing twice daily, and visiting us at Eagle River Dentistry for routine care, at least two times per year.

These repeated, not-so-random acts of kindness toward your teeth add up. After a while, you’ll really see the difference reflected in your oral health and the beauty of your smile.

2. A relaxing dental visit does you good
It’s the norm rather than the exception for you to feel anxious about coming to see us. Don’t worry; we don’t take it personally. The sights, sounds, and feelings you may have experienced at the dentist in the past is embedded in your memory, and if they’re negative, we aim to flip your perception.

It’s time to take advantage of the many techniques you can use to make coming to visit us easier, more pleasant, and stress-free.

3. Mouth happiness means giving yourself some TLC
With this tip, we’re really asking you to give your teeth some tenderness and to stop using them as tools to do tasks they were never designed to perform, from opening unwilling jars to ripping off plastic packaging. Stick with relying on your pearly whites to eat and drink, and you’ll be all set.

4. Enemies of a healthy lifestyle also detract from a healthy mouth
To have the most dazzling smile you can muster, ditch the sugary drinks and fruit juices — yes, even though the word fruit appears in there, juices are still a cavity culprit. Ditto for the starchy foods that morph into acids that accelerate tooth decay.  

Also, cool it with the wine and coffee; both stain your teeth. Instead, drink cucumber or lemon-infused water, and munch on some veggies and hummus. Your teeth will thank you.

Also, if you smoke, stop, and if you don’t, never start! The habit is disastrous for your teeth and stains them badly.

5. Medications, and not just cookies, contain sugar
Did you know that many common prescription medications are sugar-based? Everything from popular antidepressants to decongestants and medications meant to alleviate pain, can wreak havoc on your teeth.

Ring in the new year by renewing your commitment to oral health.
Dr. Raichart and the entire Eagle River Dental team want to be your allies in keeping your smile beautiful for the special events that make this season festive and beyond.

Contact us to schedule your appointment for preventive care, or if you’re concerned about any issue that affects your smile at all, we’re the ones to consult as well. Call our office at 970-926-1519 to make an appointment, or fill out our online request form, and we’ll get back to you promptly. We look forward to seeing you!