January gives us an opportunity to reflect on the previous year, and also plan for the year ahead. Many of us will make new year resolutions for specific goals or self-improvements. It is believed that the Babylonians were the first to start this tradition! They made promises to their gods that they would return borrowed objects and pay their debts. Later, the Romans would make promises to the god Janus, for whom the month of January is named. In the Medieval era, knights took the “peacock vow” to re- affirm their commitment to chivalry. We hope that improving your oral health will make your resolution list this year! Schedule your yearly check up and cleaning, commit to flossing, cut back on sugar, and kick your tobacco habits.

Dr. Sarah Keating Sangalang, Reflections Dental, www.reflectionsdentalhealth.ca