What Are the Smartest Dental Choices You Can Make in Your 20s?

In your 20s, you primarily focus on building a career, strengthening relationships, and achieving personal goals. As a result, you often ignore your dental health. It may not cause immediate problems, but it often leads to painful and costly treatments in the future.

You pay special attention to your oral health to avoid long-term problems. The decisions you make now can improve your smile and the overall health of your teeth and gums. A few smart dental choices today can help you avoid major issues, such as tooth decay, gum disease, and root canals in the future. In this article, we will go through some of the smartest dental choices you can make in your 20s.

6 Smartest Dental Choices You Should Make in Your 20s

1. Consider Braces Early

If your teeth are crowded, crooked, or misaligned, getting braces or clear aligners in your 20s is a smart move. At this age, your jaw has typically finished growing, which means orthodontic treatment can be more predictable and effective.

Straightening your teeth not only improves your appearance but also makes it easier to brush and floss, which reduces the risk of cavities and gum problems. It also helps prevent jaw pain and uneven wear. Make sure you contact a reliable dentist to get braces.

You can Google “braces near me” and explore some top options to find qualified dentists to get braces. Getting recommendations and comparing multiple options can also help you make the right choice.

2. Pay Attention to Oral Hygiene

One of the most effective ways to protect your teeth is by brushing and flossing daily. In your 20s, you often juggle your work, studies, and social life. In this busy schedule, it’s easy to avoid oral hygiene. However, neglecting this basic habit can lead to cavities, plaque buildup, and gum disease.

You should brush at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and floss once a day. You should make it a habit, just like showering or eating breakfast. This consistency can help you avoid costly dental problems and maintain fresh breath over the years.

3. Get a Thorough Dental Cleaning

Even if you brush and floss regularly, it’s not enough to remove all plaque and tartar. Therefore, professional dental cleanings every six months are crucial. Your dentist can clean the areas you might miss and spot early signs of issues, such as cavities, gum disease, or enamel erosion.

These cleanings help keep your gums healthy and your teeth strong. Skipping them to save time or money often results in multiple problems, and untreated issues grow worse. You should prioritize dental cleaning now because it’s easier and cheaper than dealing with dental emergencies in the future.

4. Limit Sugary Drinks

Sodas, energy drinks, and fruit juices can do serious damage to your teeth. These drinks are loaded with sugar and acids that wear away enamel, the protective surface of your teeth. Once enamel is gone, it doesn't grow back, and you become more prone to cavities and sensitivity.

In your 20s, limiting sugary beverages is a smart choice. You should swap them with water, especially fluoridated water, to strengthen your teeth. You don’t have to avoid all sugar forever. Instead, you need to be mindful when consuming these drinks. For example, you can use a straw when you drink and rinse your mouth with water afterwards.

5. Get a Night Guard

If you wake up with jaw pain, headaches, or sore teeth, you might be grinding your teeth at night. This condition is known as bruxism. It can wear down your enamel, crack your teeth, and cause long-term damage. It’s more common than you think, especially in people under stress.

A custom night guard protects your teeth while you sleep. It’s comfortable and easy to use. Catching this habit early and using a night guard can save you from major dental problems. If you are concerned about how to avoid root canal, crowns, or tooth extractions, a night guard is a smart choice, as it protects your teeth from damage due to grinding.

6. Say No to Smoking

Smoking and vaping may seem harmless or trendy. However, they can have serious consequences for your oral health. They stain your teeth, dry out your mouth, and increase the risk of gum disease. Smoking continuously for a long period can lead to tooth loss and oral cancer.

In your 20s, your gums are still healthy and strong. Therefore, you should avoid smoking to maintain them. If you already use tobacco or vape, you can consult with your doctor to learn about some support options that can help you quit smoking.

Taking care of your teeth in your 20s is more than just brushing twice a day. You should make smart and proactive choices that protect your smile for years to come.