Ever wondered why some people seem to have perpetually bright, healthy smiles? The secret lies not just in their regular dental check-ups, but in what they do between those visits. Taking care of your smile goes beyond bi-annual dentist appointments, which is why we’ve created the ultimate guide to maintaining oral health between each trip to the dentist.
Daily Hygiene Practices
There are many components to strong daily habits for better dental hygiene. One of our top oral health tips is ensuring your teeth and gums are cleaned properly. Daily teeth cleaning lets you remove any food particles and bacteria to keep them from turning into cavities. Let’s dive into daily dental hygiene best practices.
Regular Brushing
Brushing your teeth lays the foundation for a good dental care routine. This tackles a majority of the leftover food particles in your mouth by covering large surface areas quickly.
Here are 4 answers to our most frequently asked questions about tooth brushing:
- How often should I brush my teeth? Brush your teeth twice a day and after meals when possible.
- What toothbrush and toothpaste should I use? Use a soft bristle toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste.
- Do I need to brush my tongue? Make sure to brush your tongue each time when you brush your teeth to prevent bad breath and gum disease.
- When should I replace my toothbrush? You should replace your toothbrush every 3-4 months to prevent bacteria buildup. This also makes sure the bristles stay in good shape to effectively remove plaque.
Flossing
While brushing removes most food particles from your mouth, it often misses the spaces between your teeth and along the gum line. This is where flossing comes in. Your dentist might give you a free container of standard floss during your next dentist check-up, but many people prefer different styles of floss. Floss picks, for example, are made of plastic and allow for easy one-handed use, making it simpler to reach the back of your mouth. Pick the floss that works best for you and your routine.
We recommend flossing once a day in the evenings to make sure you go to bed without any food particles left from your meals that day. Make a “C” shape around the tooth and use a gentle sawing motion to effectively remove plaque without aggravating your gums.
Mouthwash
This final step in your at-home dental cleaning routine helps to kill lingering bacteria, strengthen your tooth enamel, and leave your breath minty fresh. For the best results, choose an alcohol-free mouthwash with fluoride. Remember, moderation is key - some mouthwashes can be harsh if overused, so always follow the directions on the label.
Diet Recommendations
Caring for your smile goes beyond daily cleaning - your diet plays a crucial role in the health of your teeth and gums. The best foods for a healthy smile do at least one of two things: provide essential nutrients and promote saliva production. Chewing is one of the simplest ways to boost saliva, which helps neutralize acids and wash away food particles.
A Balanced Diet
As the saying goes, “An apple a day keeps the doctor away.” In this case, apples and other fruits make the perfect snack for a healthy smile. A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and dairy products not only promotes overall health but also keeps your teeth and gums strong.
Drink Plenty of Water
Drinking water is essential for overall health, but did you know it also helps reduce the risk of cavities? Sipping water after meals and when consuming sugary or acidic foods can wash away harmful particles and neutralize acids, minimizing their negative impact on your teeth.
Preventative Care
Your trusted dentist can also conduct preventative dental care procedures that will work around the clock to prevent cavities and bacteria build-up. There are three common preventative dental treatments:
- Fluoride treatments help to strengthen the tooth and prevent decay.
- Sealants work by filling in the deep grooves in your molars and premolars to prevent food particles from getting stuck.
- Prophylaxis is a deep teeth cleaning procedure that stops the progression of periodontal disease and gingivitis.
Take Proactive Steps to Keep Your Teeth & Gums Healthy
Taking care of your teeth between visits is crucial, but regular checkups are equally important. At Marysville Dental, we’re here to help you keep your smile bright and healthy. Schedule your next dental appointment with us today to ensure your teeth are in top shape. Click here to book your visit and let’s keep your oral health on track!