Keeping Your Smile Healthy

There is a lot you can do to keep your smile healthy and looking its best. Brushing and flossing at home daily, as well as scheduling regular dental checkups, will help keep your mouth healthy and free of dental problems, such as cavities and gum disease. Dr. Phu Le, your Bedford, TX dentist, can help you achieve exceptional oral health while maintaining a healthy smile.

Healthy Habits

Developing healthy habits is an excellent way to keep your smile healthy. There are several healthy habits you can implement immediately to keep your smile looking its best. Some positive habits that promote a healthy smile include:

• Practicing good oral hygiene at home
  • Brush teeth twice a day
  • Floss teeth at least once daily
  • Use a fluoride mouthwash once a day
• Getting regular dental checkups with cleanings
• Eating a healthy diet every day
• Drinking plenty of water daily
• Limiting intake of sugary foods and drinks
• Avoiding smoking (tobacco can stain teeth)

Brushing Tips

Brushing your teeth twice a day is one of the most important things you can do to maintain a healthy smile. Brushing removes plaque and prevents tartar from developing. Once tartar forms on the teeth, it can lead to the development of gum disease, cavities and potentially tooth loss. Tartar can only be removed with a professional dental cleaning done by your Bedford, TX dentist. Brushing with a fluoride toothpaste at least twice a day is the best way to prevent tartar from forming.

The American Dental Association recommends brushing teeth with a fluoride toothpaste twice daily. Use a toothbrush with soft bristles that is an appropriate shape and size for your mouth. The toothbrush should fit comfortably without being too big. Be sure to brush all areas of the mouth, including all around each tooth, along the gums, the tongue and the roof of the mouth. For best results, replace toothbrushes whenever the bristles begin to fray or every three to four months, whichever is sooner.

Practicing good oral hygiene daily is an easy way to maintain a healthy smile. Regular dental checkups and professional cleanings with your Bedford, TX dentist, Dr. Le, can help you keep that healthy smile for life. You can schedule your next checkup with Dr. Le by calling Advanced Family Dental at (817) 354-7840.