To keep your smile looking beautiful it is important to keep your mouth healthy. Managing to maintain good oral health can be hard to do on a permanent basis. We all may have an occasional lapse in our routine so it is important to follow these 7 tips to keep up good oral health and hygiene.
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Brush your teeth twice a day.
This is the most important step you can take to maintain a healthy smile. Nearly a quarter of adults do not brush their teeth twice a day. Brushing twice a day will stop bacterial build-up of plaque.
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Take the time to brush your teeth properly.
A thorough cleaning of your teeth should take at least two minutes. When you rush through your regular routine, you can leave plaque along the gum line which leads to cavities and gingivitis.
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Use proper brushing technique.
How we brush our teeth is just as important as brushing twice a day. Make sure to clean the entire surface of every tooth, since missing areas of the mouth is a common mistake. Make sure to brush up and down using a gentle circular motion. Avoid scrubbing your teeth too hard since this can lead to your gums receding over the years.
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Use the right toothbrush.
Toothbrushes come in different sizes, shapes, thickness and strength. Pick a soft brush that is rounded to more easily enable you to reach the teeth in the back of your mouth. Make sure to replace your toothbrush every few months.
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Floss your teeth.
Flossing your teeth will help remove the plaque and bacteria that cannot be reached by brushing your teeth alone. You will miss up to one-third of your tooth surfaces when cleaning your teeth if you do not incorporate flossing into your regular routine.
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Avoid too much sugar.
Harmful oral bacteria feeds on sugar, and too much of it can lead to tooth decay. Try to avoid fizzy drinks in particular, which are the number one cause of tooth decay which leads to cavities.
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Visit your dentist regularly.
The body builds up plaque and calculus over time, and if it is not removed on a regular basis, will become embedded underneath your gums, which leads to periodontal disease. A small cavity is easier and less expensive to manage with a simple filling. Big cavities will cause you pain and suffering and the possible loss of your tooth. A regular check up with our dental office will help you maintain good oral health and hygiene, and keep your smile looking beautiful.
Source: mouthhealthy.org
Dr. Ted Melchers and his staff provide dental care to patients and their families throughout the Low country of South Carolina. Our patients are our primary concern. Our dental team is here to help develop a treatment plan that is right for you and to take the time to explain any treatment that is necessary. Contact us today at info@oldmtpleasantdentistry.com.
