As people across the country set goals for the new year, experts at the Rutgers School of Dental Medicine are encouraging individuals to add one more pledge to their list: improving their oral health.
Faculty members from multiple dental specialties are urging patients to adopt simple habits that can strengthen teeth, prevent disease and promote overall wellness throughout 2026.
Make oral cancer screenings a priority, said Rabie Shanti, director of maxillofacial oncology and associate professor of oral and maxillofacial surgery. “Regular oral cancer screenings can be lifesaving. During your dentist’s visits, make sure you ask for an oral cancer screening at least once a year. If you use tobacco products, drink alcohol excessively, or have a condition that weakens your immune system, you should have your oral cancer screenings more often,” he said.
For those undergoing orthodontic treatment, Padma Mukherjee, professor of orthodontics, emphasized the importance of wearing elastic bands consistently. “Commit to consistent elastic wear for your braces because small bands make big results,” she said.
Avoiding cavities remains a central focus of preventive care. “Cavities are much easier to prevent than they are to treat,” said Mary Beth Giacona, associate professor of pediatric dentistry. “Healthy habits such as brushing twice daily with fluoridated toothpaste, flossing and limiting sugary snacks and drinks can prevent tooth decay. Adults should serve as role models while encouraging children to establish these healthy habits early in their lives.”
Patients who enjoy sugary drinks should be mindful of how they consume them, said Steven Toth, associate professor of diagnostic sciences. “Every sip of a sugary drink restarts the acid attack on your teeth. If you choose to have a soda, drink it all in one sitting rather than sipping all day. Your enamel will thank you,” he said.
Carla Falcon, associate professor of endodontics, advised seeking expert input before scheduling a tooth extraction. “Save your natural teeth whenever you can. An implant can be an excellent replacement for a missing tooth, but it is no substitute for a maintainable natural tooth, so find out if your tooth can be saved with root canal treatment before you take it out by visiting an endodontist,” she said.
Maintaining gum health is equally essential, said Ioanna Tsolaki, director of postgraduate periodontics and assistant professor. “Gum disease may be linked to other diseases such as heart disease and diabetes, and researchers suspect that inflammation may be the basis behind this relationship. Brush, floss and get an annual comprehensive periodontal evaluation,” she said.
Donald Lapine, director of operative dentistry and assistant professor of restorative dentistry, encouraged patients to work with their dentist to create a tailored approach. “Protect your investments in oral health by scheduling regular visits and consulting with your dentist to create a personalized oral health plan, which may include nutritional counseling, oral hygiene instruction and fluoride treatment,” he said.
Finally, Carla Cugini, assistant professor of oral biology, said oral health should be viewed as part of whole-body well-being. “Researchers have made a number of links with microbiome dysfunction, poor oral health and effects in other conditions ranging from inflammatory diseases, effects on pregnancy, gut health and nutrition, brain health and cardiovascular health, to name a few,” she said. “Taking care of your teeth starting in childhood will help maintain good overall health well into adulthood. The mouth is literally and figuratively the entry point to the body. Good oral health is indicative of good overall health.”
