After a routine cleaning, keeping your teeth clean and oral hygiene in check is top of mind. You may want to protect your teeth and keep them looking their best but not be sure what it takes. It’s easy to become careless, but it’s also easy to keep up a good oral hygiene routine. Your teeth and gums will thank you later.
The dentists at Chester Family Dentistry provide quality and comfortable dental care. Visit Ana Chester, DDS and Amy Caicco, DDS for your next teeth cleaning. And in between cleanings, take the following measures to keep your teeth healthy before your next visit.
There’s a lot of bacteria living in your mouth, and sugar can send it out of control. Sugar, whether from desserts or the many foods that contain hidden added sugars, can wreak havoc on your mouth. Cavities often occur because the bacteria in your mouth digests the sugar, produces acid and weakens tooth enamel.
In short, the less sugar you eat, the easier it is to maintain your oral health through regular brushing and flossing. When you cut back, there’s less plaque to contend with.
Cleaning between your teeth may prevent cavities and gum disease. Plaque can build up in between your teeth and cause unpleasant symptoms (bad breath, plaque build-up, etc). When you don’t floss, the acid build-up on your teeth is released, often leading to cavities.
So, floss at least once a day to keep your plaque build-up to a minimum.
Your brushing technique can make a world of difference. Brushing your teeth twice a day is important, but if you’re brushing at the wrong angle, you may be doing a disservice to your oral health. Use circular motions at a 45 degree angle with the head of the brush pointed towards your gum line. Brush each tooth between 10 and 15 times.
Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral in your bones and teeth. When you eat food, your body produces acids that eat away at the naturally occurring enamel. Too much acid can weaken your teeth. Fluoride can help remineralize your teeth naturally.
Your tap water likely contains enough fluoride to benefit you, but you may also want to protect your teeth further through toothpaste or mouthwash that contains fluoride. Fluoride helps lower your mouth’s acidity levels, strength tool enamel, rebuild the minerals in your teeth and protect your teeth against sensitive substances.
Many people overlook their gum health. When your gums bleed or have heightened sensitivity, your gums are likely in poor health. Bleeding gums isn’t a good sign. Because many may not even be aware their gums are at risk, they may not realize they have gum disease. You can prevent periodontal disease by practicing flossing regularly, practicing good oral hygiene, including regularly brushing, and rinsing with mouthwash.
Your dentist is your best source of advice. After each appointment, make sure to ask all your questions and follow the suggested regime to ensure proper oral health.
Book or call your next teeth cleaning with Chester Family Dentistry for a healthier smile, every time.
