Brush and floss regularly. An essential habit to dental care,
brushing once in the morning and once at night greatly improves an individual’s
defense against dental issues by removing the source of the problem. Flossing
works similarly to brushing, getting deep between teeth to gently scrape away
plaque from areas brushing cannot reach.
Rinse with mouthwash. While a non-alcoholic antiseptic mouthwash
can provide greater benefits like eliminating bacteria and freshening breath,
simple going through the act of swishing water between teeth dislodges any
leftover debris from food.
Visit the dentist at least once every six months. This ensure smiles
are free from tartar buildup, a calculus that cannot be brushed or flossed
away. Routine visits also allow dentists to conduct examinations to proactively
treat issues before they can occur.
Avoid food products with too much sugar. Soda and candy can be major
contributors to decay and gingivitis. Bacteria feed off sugar and produce an
acid that eats away at enamel, weakening the tooth.
Eat more whole fruits and vegetables. Apples, cucumbers, carrots,
and celery all have one thing in common—they’re good for your teeth! Not only
are these foods packed with essential vitamins and minerals needed good health,
the fibers help keep teeth clean by whisking away debris and plaque.
Don’t use your teeth as tools. Habits like using teeth to crush ice
or open cans may not seem so bad, but can actually cause damage to teeth that
may warrant a need for bonding or crowns. Keep teeth away from potentially hard
objects, as these can cause cracks or chips.
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The beauty of your smile depends upon maintaining healthy
habits. Making sure to follow these tips will establish a foundation dental
care that will help you keep your teeth strong and healthy well into your
senior years.
Our practice is dedicated to helping patients improve their
health by providing the tools and information needed to make educated decisions
about their health. Check with our office staff and schedule an appointment
with Dr. Lisa Heinrich-Null to explore options for improving your smile.
