Your oral healthcare routine is good, but you want to make it better. You want to make sure you leave no stone left unturned, no tooth left uncleaned, and no bacteria left in the mouth, so you scour the internet looking for the top tips to keep your smile healthy and beautiful. You’ve come to the right place!
Here are five must-know tips to prevent plaque from decaying teeth and ensure your smile remains its best for a lifetime.
Brush like your life depends on it, because it does! Did you know that failing to brush increases your risk for developing issues like periodontal disease and tooth loss? And did you also know that issues with your smile can contribute to complications with the rest of the body, like heart disease and diabetes? Brush proactively at least twice a day to remove any excess bacteria and plaque before it hardens to tartar and harms teeth.
Floss nearly as much as you brush. Flossing gets in between the hard to reach areas that brushing cannot. Furthermore, flossing prevents gingivitis by removing bacteria contributing to inflammation and infection. This single habit can greatly improve your at-home oral healthcare routine and eliminate the need for more extensive dental treatment. If you or a loved one lack the dexterity to use floss, or if flossing is uncomfortable, explore alternative methods such as the use of a water pick.
Eat healthy. Plain and simple. Just as good nutrition can help the rest of your body, eating healthy, vitamin-rich foods greatly improves your smile’s natural ability to stave off infection and remineralize enamel, making for strong, radiant teeth. On the other hand, stay away from foods heavy in salt, sugar, and acids, as these can damage teeth and leave the smile in poor health.
Avoid bad habits like smoking and using teeth as tools. Doing these things puts your teeth in harm’s way and makes them susceptible to issues like damage and bacteria growth. Smoking is especially harmful to teeth as it dries up the mouth and compromises the healthy oral environment, making it especially easy for bacteria to harbor and colonize.
Visit your dentist regularly. Most can get away with visiting the dentist only once every six months for routine checkups and cleanings, but some may require more frequent visits to improve oral health. Visiting your dental healthcare provider allows him or her to address tartar buildup and foresee any potential issues that may be of concern in the future.
If you’re curious of learning more way to improve your oral health and fight against decay, call our office to schedule an appointment with our dentist.