Keep Your Teeth Healthy All Year Long:
Cavities and gum disease may contribute to many serious conditions, including heart disease, diabetes, respiratory diseases, and premature and low weight babies. Untreated cavities can also be painful and lead to serious infections.
In order to maintain a good oral hygiene you need to keep the teeth free from cavities and prevent gum diseases. Poor oral health can affect your appearance and self-esteem, due to discoloration and halitosis; it has been linked to sleeping problems. Poor oral health can also affect your ability to chew and digest food properly resulting in malnourishment.
Good oral health should be a priority in all stages of life, in order to sustain your the teeth into old age.
1. Brush Regularly:
The most important step for maintaining healthy teeth and gums is regular brushing using the Modified Bass Brushing Technique. Brush at least twice a day with a soft-bristled brush, which won’t damage the enamel layer or irritate gums.
2. Floss:
Floss daily to remove food particles wedged between teeth that a toothbrush can’t reach. Food and debris left on the teeth for a long period of time will lead to tooth decay.
3. Fluoride:
Rinsing with fluoride after brushing and flossing for one minute helps prevent tooth decay and strengthens the outer enamel of the teeth.
4. Maintain Healthy Diet:
The condition of your teeth relies heavily on the food and drinks that you consume every day. Limit your intake of sodas that contain Citric and Phosphoric acid, as those acids have a corrosive effect on the teeth. Alcoholic drinks can also irritate the gum, tongue, and other oral tissues, as well as increase decay and gum disease. Heavy consumers of alcohol also have a higher risk of developing cancer in the mouth.
5. Avoid/Minimize Tobacco Use
One of the leading causes of dental destruction is tobacco. Chemicals and substances in tobacco products discolor and weaken teeth. And chewing tobacco is often responsible for oral cancer. Additionally, smoking leads to tooth stains, bad breath, and damages the gums by reducing blood supply.
6. Visit Your Dentist Regularly for Checkups and Cleanings:
Visiting your dentist for routine checkups and cleanings is essential for maintaining healthy teeth and gums. A professional dentist has the expertise and technology necessary to make sure your teeth and gums are healthy, and can detect problems that are not visible by looking in the mirror, like cavities and gingivitis. The dentist will also be able to screen for signs of oral cancer, which is treatable if detected early.
For more information on how to maintain your oral hygiene and beautiful smile schedule an appointment with us today. By following these six steps you can establish and maintain not only good oral hygiene, but a healthy glowing smile as well. The health of your smile relates directly to your overall health- start protecting your smile today.
-The Kauffman Dental Team