We all know that visiting the dentist for regular cleanings is vital to your teeth and gums’ health. Another important part of maintaining your oral health is keeping your teeth healthy between dentist visits. You should do a few simple things to reduce the likelihood of cavities and gum disease dramatically. Observing your daily habits and making small adjustments can make all the difference in how clean and healthy your teeth are. Let’s review some tips from your family dentist in Webster to keep your teeth healthy between visits.
1. Brush Effectively
You probably know that brushing twice per day is non-negotiable when it comes to oral hygiene. But, there’s a big difference between quickly running a toothbrush over your teeth for 30 seconds and taking two full minutes to brush each tooth carefully. Make sure that you are holding the brush properly and getting the backs of your teeth. Be sure to pay special attention to any areas where food can get stuck.
2. Floss Daily
You may have heard the saying, “You don’t have to floss all your teeth; just the ones you want to keep!”
Flossing reaches places that your toothbrush can’t and removes those tiny food particles that can get stuck between your teeth. This reduces the opportunity for bacteria and plaque to build up and cause decay and gum disease. In fact, studies show that flossing daily can reduce gum bleeding, often one of the first signs of gum disease, by 40%. [1] So, if you are someone who skips flossing, this is a habit you definitely want to incorporate twice a day with your brushing.
3. Ditch Your Tobacco Habit
It has been shown that smoking is bad for your overall health. But, did you know smoking dramatically increases your chance of gum disease and tooth loss?
Smoking interferes with the normal function of gum tissue, which can lead to periodontal disease. Smoking can also lead to bone loss in the jaw, which causes your teeth to loosen. [2] Regardless of how long you’ve been a smoker, quitting your habit now will stop further damage and decay. You can protect your oral health moving forward if you stop smoking today.
4. Reduce Your Sugar Intake
When you consume sugar, the harmful bacteria in your mouth break down the sugar and create harmful acids which damage the tooth enamel. This eventually leads to cavities and tooth loss.
Sugar can be found in sneaky places, so be sure to pay close attention to what you’re eating and drinking. Reducing the consumption of the following foods and drinks can improve your dental health dramatically:
- Soda, juice, and other sugary drinks
- Alcoholic beverages
- Candy and sugary gum
- Dried fruits
You should also limit or stay away from sticky foods such as candy and lollipops and starchy foods such as chips and crackers. These starchy foods can sit on your teeth and continue to release sugar long after you’ve finished eating.
5. Avoid Dry Mouth
Certain things can slow-down saliva production and cause your gums and teeth to become dry, which can lead to decay and tooth loss. Activities that cause dry mouth include smoking and consuming alcohol and caffeine. Reducing your alcohol and caffeine consumption can help to prevent dry mouth. Sometimes, however, dry mouth is caused by other health conditions or medications. In these cases, it is important to sip on water or keep sugar-free hard candy with you to increase your saliva production.
Schedule an Appointment with Your Family Dentist In Webster
Regular dental cleanings are a vital part of oral hygiene and overall health. You should visit your family dentist at least twice per year for a cleaning and checkup. Empire Dental Care in Webster can help you make easy changes to your home-habits to keep your smile healthy and happy. To schedule an appointment at Empire Dental Care, contact us today at 585.671.1650.
Sources:
[1] https://www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/news/20060809/flossing-needed-to-fight-gum-disease
[2] https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/guide/smoking-oral-health#1
