Practicing good oral hygiene is essential to keeping your teeth strong. From using the correct oral care products to seeking a general dentist regularly, there are plenty of steps you can take to achieve a healthy smile. Here are four daily habits that you should implement into your daily routine.
Brushing your teeth is one of the most effective ways to eliminate bacteria and therefore prevent the formation of plaque and tartar on the teeth and gums. Be sure to brush your teeth twice a day for about two to three minutes each time. Use small, circular motions and brush the front, back, and top of each tooth.
Many people make the mistake of brushing too aggressively. This will not make your teeth cleaner; in fact, it can damage your enamel and lead to sensitivity and gum erosion. To prevent damage to your teeth, use a soft-bristled toothbrush and replace it approximately every three months or when the ends begin to look frayed.
In addition to brushing your teeth regularly, flossing is equally as important. Although toothbrushes can remove plaque from the front and back of your teeth, floss is designed to target the hard-to-reach spots, such as the small spaces between each tooth. Because these spots are tight and dark, they provide the optimal environment for bacteria to multiply. Not only can flossing remove food from between the teeth, but it can also stimulate the gums and help reduce inflammation.
Sugar turns into acid in the mouth, which can erode the enamel on your teeth and lead to cavities. In addition, starchy foods, such as bread, chips, crackers, and pasta, break down into sugars in the mouth. Therefore, eating starchy foods has the same effect as consuming sugar. Other foods that damage the teeth include
Instead of eating sugary or starchy foods, try adding fiber-rich fruits and vegetables to your diet. Dairy products are also good for your teeth, as the calcium and phosphates build enamel and restore minerals that your teeth may have lost due to other foods.
Even if you practice good oral hygiene, you still need to visit the dentist regularly. Seeking general dentistry services is one of the most effective ways to maintain a healthy smile. Experts recommend seeing a dentist every six months for a routine examination, which consists of removing plaque and tartar from the teeth and looking for cavities, gum disease, and other oral health concerns. If you notice any changes in your mouth, be sure to see a dentist immediately.
Many serious dental issues can be prevented with good oral hygiene and routine visits to the dentist's office. Cavities are common and relatively simple to repair. However, tooth decay that is left to progress can cause major problems, including severe pain, weakened tooth structure, infection, and even tooth loss. Regular removal of plaque and tartar buildup along with a healthy diet significantly reduce the risks of severe tooth decay and its consequences.
Gum disease is another serious yet often preventable oral health issue. Proper brushing and flossing keep the gum tissues robust while reducing the number of unhealthy bacteria in the mouth. Without these daily practices, inflammation and bacterial buildup are much more likely. Gum disease can be especially harmful because it affects not only the mouth but many other systems of the body. People who have this dental problem are more at risk for cardiovascular issues, arthritis, stroke, diabetes, pregnancy complications, and many other health complications.
Regular dental visits offer more than just the prevention of tooth decay and gum disease. These checkups can allow dentists to detect more serious issues at an early stage, often before problematic symptoms arise. Early detection often enables the dentist to treat the problem more effectively and with better success. In some situations, the procedures required are less painful and less invasive during the early stages, making the overall experience much better for the patient.
From taking care of your teeth to seeking general dentistry services, there are many ways that you can maintain proper oral hygiene. Not only can practicing good habits keep your teeth strong, but it can also have a positive effect on your overall health.
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