A healthy body takes a balanced diet, regular exercise, and a proactive approach to your general wellness. Your mouth isn’t any different. It also requires commitment. The right oral habits help to ensure your teeth last for a lifetime while preventing an array of complications that can occur in your mouth, like gum disease. These 5 simple habits can help to prevent any unexpected news during your next visit to the dentist.
1. Brush your teeth twice a day.
From a very young age, you’ve been told you should brush your teeth twice per day, but after long hours at work, it’s easy to climb into bed without brushing. You’re not alone. In fact, 3 out of 10 Americans don’t brush twice a day. Although it may not seem like a big deal, it leaves food particles and plaque in your mouth, which is the perfect breeding ground for bacteria that can lead to tooth decay and gum disease.
2. Don’t forget to floss.
No matter how well you brush, there are still going to be areas in your mouth you can’t clean at home, like in between the teeth. As a result, food debris and plaque build in the areas, significantly increasing your risk of gum disease. Flossing is the best way to remove the accumulations to prevent the infection. It’s best to choose a high-quality dental floss that has the support of the American Dental Association to clean in between each tooth before going to bed at night.
3. Drink tap water.
A carbonated beverage or a glass of sweet juice may taste refreshing on a hot day, but they contain sugar that can damage your smile. When sugar combines with your saliva, it turns to an acid that eats away at your enamel. This increases your risk of tooth decay. It’s best to drink tap water as an alternative. Not only will you protect your teeth from sugar, but tap water also contains fluoride. As nature’s cavity fighter, it strengthens your enamel to keep your teeth strong.
4. Eat fresh fruits and vegetables.
Fresh fruits and vegetables are loaded with vitamins and minerals that keep your mouth and body healthy, but they also offer other benefits as well. Those that are crisp or crunchy help cleanse your teeth when you can’t get to your toothbrush. If you need a quick snack, it’s best to grab some carrots or a juicy apple.
5. Don’t forget to visit your dentist.
The American Dental Association recommends you visit your dentist at least twice a year for a cleaning and checkup. This removes harmful buildup while also monitoring your oral health for quick detection and intervention. With the right oral hygiene habits at home and care from your dentist, you can invest in a lasting, healthy smile.
Where is a Dentist Near Me?
If you haven’t been to a dentist recently, ask your friends and neighbors for recommendations to make the best choice for your smile.
About Advanced Smile Design
Advanced Smile Design is committed to providing our patients with all the services they need from one convenient location. We focus on prevention to ensure your smile lasts. If it’s time for your next cleaning and checkup, contact our office today for an appointment.
