A new year is a clean slate for your smile and your habits. Start strong and focus on simple steps that support lasting oral health in Northern Neck, VA.

Call Richard Cottrell, DDS & Associates to visit one of our two locations: 540-835-5317 (King George) or 804-575-7495 (Callao).

Set a Steady Daily Rhythm

Brush for two full minutes, morning and night, with fluoride toothpaste. Floss once a day to clear the tight spaces your brush can’t reach.

Upgrade Your At-Home Toolkit

Retire a worn brush every three months, or sooner if bristles bend. An electric toothbrush or a water flosser can make cleanings thorough and easy.

Eat for Strong Teeth

Balanced meals help your enamel stay tough. Fill your plate with protein, minerals, and vitamins that nourish teeth and gums.

  • Yogurt, cheese, or calcium-fortified options
  • Leafy greens like spinach and kale
  • Crunchy fruits and vegetables such as apples and carrots
  • Nuts, eggs, beans, and lean meats

Keep Sugar in Check

Sticky sweets and sugary drinks feed the bacteria that cause decay. Save them for rare treats and rinse with water after.

Hydrate the Healthy Way

Plain water helps wash away acids and bits of food. If your tap water has fluoride, every sip adds a little protection.

Guard Against Wear and Tear

Do not chew ice or bite hard objects like pens or fingernails. If you grind at night, ask your dentist about a comfortable night guard.

Make Fitness a Mouth-Safe Zone

Sports and active play can put teeth at risk. Wear a well-fitted mouthguard during practices and games to prevent chips and breaks.

Plan Regular Checkups

Twice-yearly visits help your dentist spot small issues early and keep tartar under control. This step supports preventive care and steadies your path to strong oral health in Northern Neck.

Build a Quit Strategy for Tobacco

Tobacco dries the mouth and heightens the risk of gum disease and oral cancer. Your dental team can connect you with tools and support that make quitting more achievable.

Pack a Mini Smile Kit

Keep a small pouch with floss, a travel brush, fluoride rinse, and sugar-free gum. Stash one in your backpack, locker, or car for busy days.

Make It a Family Effort

Healthy habits stick when the household joins in. Brush together at night and keep water bottles ready for everyone.

Keep the Momentum

Consistency turns small tasks into big results. Fewer cavities, calmer gums, and fresher breath are within reach when you stay the course.

Make this the year you focus on your oral health in Northern Neck with steady routines, smart food choices, and timely care. Strong habits today build a confident smile for every season ahead.

Schedule your visit with Richard Cottrell, DDS & Associates and take the next step toward a healthy, comfortable smile all year long.

Call 540-835-5317 (King George) or 804-575-7495 (Callao). You can also ​​schedule online for King George or schedule online for Callao.