dental resolutions for a healthier smile

5 Easy Dental Resolutions for a Healthier Smile in 2025

We believe that a healthy smile is one of the most important parts of overall well-being. As we step into 2025, it’s the perfect time to think about how we can improve our dental health and make sure our smiles stay bright, healthy, and pain-free all year long.

Here are 5 easy dental resolutions you can make for a healthier smile this year, all while enjoying the compassionate care you deserve:

1. Brush and Floss Daily (and Do It Right!)

Brushing your teeth twice a day is a no-brainer, but are you doing it properly? Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste, and brush for at least two minutes. Don’t forget to floss every day, too! Flossing removes plaque and food particles from between your teeth where your toothbrush can’t reach, helping prevent cavities and gum disease.

2. Schedule Your Regular Checkups

Regular dental checkups are essential for maintaining good oral health. At our office, we make it easy and stress-free for you to stay on top of your dental health. Professional cleanings, exams, and screenings can help catch any issues early before they become big problems. Make 2025 the year you keep up with your bi-annual visits!

3. Limit Sugary Snacks and Drinks

Sugar is one of the biggest culprits behind tooth decay. Try to cut back on sugary snacks and drinks, or at least rinse your mouth with water after indulging. If you’re craving something sweet, opt for tooth-friendly options like cheese, nuts, or fruits. Your smile will thank you!

4. Use Mouthguards for Sports or Teeth Grinding

If you play contact sports or grind your teeth at night, consider investing in a custom mouthguard. This simple step can prevent serious damage to your teeth, and it’s a great way to protect your smile from unnecessary wear and tear.

5. Quit Smoking or Using Tobacco Products

Tobacco use is not only harmful to your overall health, but it also has a direct impact on your teeth and gums. Quitting smoking can help prevent gum disease, bad breath, and tooth loss. If you need support, we’re here to help guide you toward a healthier, tobacco-free life.

Why Choose Us for Your Dental Care?

We’re dedicated to providing top-notch dental excellence paired with compassionate care. We understand that visiting the dentist can be stressful for some, which is why our team is committed to making your experience as comfortable and caring as possible. Whether you’re coming in for a routine checkup or need more extensive care, we’re here to ensure you receive the best treatment with a personal touch.

Start 2025 off right by taking steps to improve your oral health. If you’re ready to make your dental hygiene a priority this year, give us a call today. We can’t wait to help you smile brighter in 2025!

Dr. Laura Lan

Dr. Laura will be in our office over the next couple of months. Dr. Laura Lan grew up in Los Angeles, California. She obtained her Bachelor of Science degree from the University of California, Davis. Dr. Laura made her way out to the Midwest to attend The Ohio State University College of Dentistry, where she earned her Doctor of Dental Surgery degree.

In her free time, Dr. Laura enjoys spending time with family and friends, hiking, and practicing yoga.

FUN FACT… Laura was a classmate of Dr. Rachel’s at Ohio State, and while Fara is a year ahead of Laura and Rachel, she is a close friend of Fara’s from dental school.

Steve M. Jones, D.D.S.

Senior Dentist Emeritus

Dr. Steven M. Jones is a graduate of Shawnee High School. He attended Miami University in Oxford, Ohio where he received his B.A. in Microbiology in 1986. Four years later he received his Doctor of Dental Surgery Degree (D.D.S.) from the Ohio State University College of Dentistry. Dr. Jones entered private practice in 1990 in Columbus, Ohio. Dr. Jones also practiced in one of the first after hours dental emergency clinics in the country. After several years of private practice, he returned to his hometown of Lima, Ohio. Dr. Jones served as a clinical instructor at the Lima Technical College Dental Hygiene School and began planning a new general practice in the Lima area. In 2002 Dr. Jones opened the newly constructed Northwest Dental Center. Dr. Jones is a member of the Ohio Dental Association, American Dental Association, Northwestern Ohio Dental Society & Academy of Contemporary Dentistry in Columbus Ohio.

Dr. Rachel Salen, D.D.S.

Dr. Rachel Salen grew up in Erie, Pennsylvania until her family moved to Quincy, Illinois where she graduated from Quincy Notre Dame high school.

She then crossed the Mississippi River to study at Saint Louis University where she earned her Bachelor of Science in Biology and Bachelor of Arts in Classical Humanities. Her family then moved to her father’s hometown of Warren, Ohio, leading her to choose The Ohio State University College of Dentistry for her post-graduate education where she would go on to earn her Doctorate of Dental Surgery.

Dr. Salen is very excited to begin her career serving the great people of West Central Ohio.

Dr. Salen will make a great addition to our patient-centered team by providing comprehensive care for patients of all ages, including operative, prosthodontic, endodontic, and surgical treatments.

In addition to delivering great dental care, Rachel enjoys taking too many pictures of her cat, traveling across the Midwest and Northeast to visit her family and friends, and reading a good book!

Fara Hurt, D.D.S.

Dr. Fara Hurt grew up in Lima, Ohio. She is a graduate of Elida High school.

Dr. Hurt earned a Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene and Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the Ohio State University College of Dentistry. Fara worked for several years in the Columbus area, helping patients with their oral health needs and supporting patients with their periodontal care.

As a dentist, Dr. Hurt will make a great addition to our patient-centered team by providing comprehensive care for patients of all ages, including operative, prosthodontic and endodontic treatments In addition to delivering great care, Fara enjoys spending time with family and friends. She also enjoys hiking, traveling, and attending football games.

Mary Wiechart, D.M.D

Dr. Mary Wiechart is a Lima native. She is a graduate of Lima Central Catholic High School. Dr. Wiechart earned a Bachelor of Science in Nature Sciences from Xavier University. She earned a Doctorate of Medicine from the University of Kentucky College of Dentistry.

Her practice includes operative, prosthodontic, endodontic and surgical treatments. In addition to delivering great care, Mary enjoys spending time with family, friends and her dog, Bella. She also enjoys baking, golfing, traveling and listening to music.

Jill A. Miller, D.D.S

Senior Dentist

Dr. Jill A Miller is an Elida native and Elida High School graduate.

She is a graduate of Ohio Northern University and earned her Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from The Ohio State University in 2009.

Dr. Miller provides comprehensive care to patients of all ages and strives to make patients feel comfortable. Her goal is to make going to the dentist a pleasant experience for children and adults.

Dr. Miller has served as externship site host for Ohio Northern University and has partnered with the University of Northwestern Ohio to provide emergency dental care to student athletes.

Dr. Miller is a member of the Ohio Dental Association, American Dental Association, Northwestern Ohio Dental Society, and the Ohio State University Dental alumni society.

In her spare time, Dr. Miller volunteers in the children ministry at her church, enjoys running and spending time with her husband, Zac, and their 3 children.