Good oral health is important for you to remain healthy. Not only does it allow you to chew and speak properly, but it also helps in boosting your self-confidence. Listed below are some tips that will help you maintain good oral health.
- Brushing and flossing
While your dental hygienist cleans your teeth during your cleanings, you should still brush your teeth twice a day for two minutes each time. Flossing once a day is also a must. This will ensure that you remove food particles from between your teeth and that your teeth and gums stay healthy and clean.
As important as brushing and flossing are, it’s even more important to do them right. Take small strokes; don’t heavily scrub or floss too aggressively, so you don’t damage your gums. Additionally, when you brush, make sure you brush your teeth for at least two minutes. When flossing, work the floss between each tooth and along the gum line to help remove plaque and food debris. Lastly, don’t forget to brush your tongue along with your toothbrush. A clean tongue is just as important as a clean smile!
- Regular checkups and cleanings
Every six months, you should schedule a visit with your general dentist for a checkup and teeth cleaning. These appointments allow your dentist to regularly monitor your oral health and address any symptoms before they worsen. Additionally, a professional cleaning will remove plaque buildup from difficult-to-reach areas to prevent tooth decay and gum disease.
At your checkup, the dentist will also screen for oral cancer and examine your teeth for signs of decay. Your dentist may recommend additional treatments at these visits to address oral health concerns such as cavities, gum disease, or tooth sensitivity. Cavities will be filled, while gum disease may be treated through professional deep cleanings. Tooth sensitivity can be addressed with a fluoride treatment or a sealant.
If it’s been longer than six months since your last appointment, contact your dentist to schedule an appointment.
- Avoiding tobacco and consuming alcohol in moderation
Tobacco use of any kind can negatively impact your oral health! Smoking damages the gums, throat, lungs, and overall body health in a variety of ways. In addition to causing bad breath, smoking can lead to tooth loss, gum disease, and even oral cancer.
Limit your consumption of alcohol and beverages high in sugar or acid content as well, as both sugar and acid contribute to tooth enamel erosion and can increase your risk of cavities. Instead, stick to water as your main beverage of choice throughout the day, and brush your teeth after consuming sugary or acidic foods to help limit their negative impact on your teeth.
Dental Aesthetic, located in Sun City, AZ, offers the best preventative dental treatment for patients. Call us at 623-300-5432 and schedule an appointment with our dentist.