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New Year’s Resolutions for a Healthier Smile: Tips for Better Oral Health Habits

As we welcome the new year in Collinsville, Illinois, many of us are setting goals to improve our health. At Liesen Family Dental, we encourage you to include oral health in your New Year’s resolutions. A healthy smile is crucial not just for aesthetics but also for overall well-being. Here are some practical tips to help you maintain a healthier smile throughout 2025.

1. Commit to Regular Dental Check-Ups

Regular dental visits are essential for maintaining good oral health. Resolve to visit Liesen Family Dental at least twice this year for routine check-ups and cleanings. These visits not only keep your teeth clean but also allow our dentists to detect early signs of problems such as gum disease or cavities before they require more complex treatment.

2. Improve Your Daily Oral Hygiene Routine

Brushing and flossing might seem basic, but they are the cornerstone of good oral hygiene:

Brush Twice a Day:

Use a fluoride toothpaste and spend at least two minutes each time. Consider investing in an electric toothbrush for more effective cleaning.

Floss Daily:

Flossing removes food particles and plaque from between your teeth where your toothbrush can’t reach. Make flossing a non-negotiable part of your daily routine.

3. Embrace a Tooth-Friendly Diet

Your diet significantly affects your dental health. Reduce your intake of sugary snacks and beverages as they are prime contributors to tooth decay. Instead, include more crunchy fruits and vegetables like apples and carrots which help clean your teeth naturally. Cheese and yogurt are also great as they contain calcium and phosphates which strengthen teeth.

4. Quit Smoking

Smoking is detrimental to your oral health as it increases your risk of gum disease, tooth loss, and oral cancer. The new year is a great opportunity to quit smoking and improve your oral health significantly. Liesen Family Dental can provide resources and support to help you quit.

5. Protect Your Teeth

If you play sports or grind your teeth at night, consider getting a custom mouthguard from Liesen Family Dental. Mouthguards protect against tooth fractures, chips, and even tooth loss, both from sports injuries and from grinding (bruxism).

6. Stay Hydrated

Drinking plenty of water is not only good for your overall health but also helps keep your mouth clean. Water washes away food particles and neutralizes acids produced by oral bacteria, decreasing your risk of tooth decay.

7. Learn More About Dental Health

Education is key to maintaining good health habits. Follow the Liesen Family Dental blog and social media channels for regular updates on dental care tips and the latest advancements in dental technology. The more you know, the better you can care for your smile.

Community Connection

Liesen Family Dental is committed to the health of the Collinsville community. We’re here to support you in achieving your health resolutions. Whether you’re looking to enhance your smile with cosmetic dentistry or need a routine cleaning, our team is ready to provide the highest quality care.

This year, make oral health a priority. Small changes can make a big difference in your dental health and overall quality of life. Start 2025 with a commitment to these dental health resolutions, and visit Liesen Family Dental for all your dental care needs.

For more information or to schedule your next appointment, please contact Liesen Family Dental. Let’s make this year the healthiest yet for your smile!

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Patient Stories

What Patients
Are Saying

    
 
 
         
   Cajun Peddler 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. You will love Dr Liesen !! He is so personable , friendly and kind… he explains everything thoroughly, up front pricing … very honest ! I used him as a 2nd opinion and the first place I went was trying to rip me off !!! I highly recommend Dr. Liesen … his pricing is also reasonable!!!
  
 
        
   Rene Futrell 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I feel so Blessed to have been referred to Dr. Liesen and his staff. After my dentist retired treating me for ten years, I was lost, upset and worried about finding another dentist that I could Trust & love. Meeting the staff and Dr. Liesen was pure joy and happiness! The receptionist Makayla was terrific!!. She took the initiative to make calls and calls to make sure I was covered. Thank you, M. Heather was wonderful and very gentle cleaning my teeth. Dr. Liesen was energetic, friendly and reassuring that he could fix my teeth and do all the work himself!!! I can't believe I have a new dentist that can meet all my dental needs. Thank you Sabrina for all your excellent follow up. Thank you so much Dr. Liesen & Staff. Renee Futrell Manchester, Mo.
  
 
        
   Jenny Wiener 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Having recently moved from Detroit, I was at a lost about which dentist to see for my checkups, etc. I happened to meet Dr. Liesen's dental hygenist and she told me how incredible her boss, Dr. Liesen is. I decided to make an appointment with him because I figured that if an employee raves about their boss, the boss must be fabulous! She is right! He is a wonderful, caring, knowlegable, GENTLE, experienced dentist! In fact, I would say he is the BEST dentist have ever been to! Dr. Liesen placed an implant in my mouth and it feels as if it has always been there...no pain, no complications! Additionally, having been to the office several times this summer I have never endured an endless wait to be seen. The office is run so efficiently and I sincerely appreciate that too!  I am able to get in and get out of my appointments without any delay. Kudos and thanks to Dr. Liesen, Sabrina and staff!
  
 
        
   S. H. 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Great staff, awesome Doc!
  
 
        
   Pamela Rubin 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Dr Leisen took me as a new patient immediately, answered my questions , explained the whole procedure. I am extremely nervous with Dentists,  he is amazing and his staff.
  
 
        
   Janet Bohnstadt 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I have been seeing Dr. Liesen beginning in April for an upper denture.  I have had the best experience with this process that I was absolutely dreading.  I highly recommend Dr. Liesen for your fixed and removable dental work.
  
 
        
   Courtney P 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Going to the dentist should never be a chore and it's not at this office. You can't find a friendlier more thorough dentist. His work is impeccable. Even in emergency cases.
  
 
        
   william shadwick 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Dr Liesen isn't just Fantastic Dentist, he's a great dentist. He the best ive ever been to. I'm very happy he stepped into Dr. Zambaldis practice when he retired. I wasn't looking forward to try and find a new dentist.