Dentists have a wealth of knowledge when it comes to oral hygiene and keeping your teeth healthy. In addition to providing regular checkups and cleanings, they can offer valuable advice on how to maintain a beautiful smile and good oral health. Here are six tips from dentists on how to have a healthy mouth and sparkling teeth.
1) Brush your teeth twice a day
This may seem like an obvious one, but it bears repeating. Brushing your teeth twice a day – once in the morning and once at night – is the best way to remove plaque and bacteria that can cause cavities and other problems. Be sure to use a soft-bristled toothbrush and toothpaste with fluoride.
Additionally, in order to brush your teeth properly, you should:
– Use circular, back-and-forth, and up-and-down motions.
– Brush the front, top, and back of your teeth.
– Use a light touch – don’t scrub too hard.
Keep in mind that brushing your tongue can also help freshen your breath and remove bacteria. To do this, simply brush your tongue with your toothbrush or use a tongue scraper. As Kate Brayman DDS says, there is a tight connection between dental and physical health, so taking care of your teeth is important for your overall health. Plus, it can save you money in the long run by avoiding costly dental procedures.
2) Floss daily
Flossing is just as important as brushing, but many people don’t do it on a regular basis. Flossing helps remove plaque and bacteria from between your teeth and under your gum line – areas that a toothbrush can’t reach. As a result, flossing can help prevent cavities and gum disease.
To properly floss your teeth:
– Use about 18 inches of floss
– Wrap most of the floss around your middle finger.
– Wrap the rest of the floss around your index finger.
– Hold the floss tightly between your thumbs and index fingers.
– Gently slide the floss up and down between your teeth.
– Curve the floss around the base of each tooth.
– Use a clean section of floss as you move from tooth to tooth.
Additionally, there are a number of flossing aids available if you find traditional flossing difficult. These include pre-strung flossers, water flossers, and interdental brushes.
In addition to flossing daily, it’s essential to know the different flosses available. The most known types are string floss vs water floss. Some people swear by water flossing, while others prefer string floss. So, what does science say? A study published in the Journal of Clinical Dentistry found that both methods effectively remove plaque and reduce gingival inflammation. However, water flossing was more effective at removing debris from interproximal areas.
3) Eat a healthy diet
What you eat has a direct impact on your oral health. A diet that is high in sugar can lead to cavities, while a diet that is high in acid can erode tooth enamel. To maintain healthy teeth, be sure to eat a balanced diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Also, limit your intake of sugary and acidic foods and drinks.
For example, if you enjoy sugary drinks like soda, be sure to brush your teeth soon after consuming them. And, if you eat acidic fruits like oranges or lemons, wait at least 30 minutes before brushing your teeth to allow the enamel to re-harden.
Additionally, snacks like chips and crackers can be bad for your teeth if they get stuck in your teeth or between them. So, it’s best to avoid them or brush your teeth after eating them.
4) Avoid tobacco
Tobacco use is one of the leading causes of oral health problems. It can lead to gum disease, tooth decay, and mouth cancer. Additionally, tobacco use can cause bad breath and stained teeth.
If you currently smoke or use tobacco products, the best thing you can do for your oral health is to quit. There are a number of resources available to help you quit, including counseling and medication.
5) Visit your dentist regularly
Even if you brush and floss daily, it’s important to visit your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings. During a routine exam, your dentist will check for signs of tooth decay, gum disease, and mouth cancer. They will also clean your teeth and remove any plaque or tartar that has built up.
Most dentists recommend that people visit for a routine cleaning and exam every six months. However, some people may need to visit more or less often depending on their oral health according to this dentist in Ballantyne.
6) Practice good oral hygiene habits
In addition to brushing, flossing, and visiting the dentist regularly, there are a number of other things you can do to maintain good oral health. These include:
– Using a mouthwash that contains fluoride.
– Wearing a mouthguard when you play sports or participate in other activities that could cause injury to your mouth.
– Avoiding teeth grinding (bruxism).
– Not using your teeth as tools
Maintaining good oral health is important for your overall physical health. By following the tips we’ve provided, you can keep your teeth healthy and beautiful. Additionally, be sure to visit your dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings.
