Top Five Tips to Keep Your Smile Beautiful for Life
A beautiful, long-lasting smile that lasts a lifetime begins with ideal oral health. While daily brushing and flossing are your first line of defense against tooth decay and gum disease, another important part of preserving your oral health is seeing the dentist regularly.
Here are some tips for maintaining a bright and healthy smile:
1) A Proper Home Hygiene Routine
Brushing in the morning and at night for two minutes is vital. An ADA approved toothbrush with soft bristles will help ensure that you get the most out of your oral hygiene routine. The soft bristles do a better job on the contours of teeth and reduce the chance of damaging enamel or scraping your gums. Tilt your toothbrush toward the gum line and brush in short, tooth-wide strokes. It is best to replace your toothbrush every three months.
Flossing is also important. Flossing removes food debris and bacteria that even your soft-bristled toothbrush cannot. Decay-causing bacteria collect in the crevices between teeth and lead to gum disease. Start with an 18 to 22-inch piece of floss and use a new section for every tooth. Another option is to use a good water pick.
2) Use a Mouthwash or Dental Rinse
Rising your mouth with an appropriate mouthwash can add another layer of protection. There are rinses that address tartar buildup and dry mouth as well as those that provide additional fluoride and help fight gum-disease.
3) Routine Dental Visits for Prevention
Despite maintaining good oral hygiene, it is still necessary to visit a dentist. Plaque and tartar often form in hard to reach areas of the mouth. Professional dental tools remove this stubborn material. By preventing tooth decay and gum disease, a dental professional reduces your chances of tooth and bone loss.
4) A Healthy Diet Promotes Healthy Teeth
Foods with a lot of sugar attract bacteria and lead to tooth decay. Crunchy fruits and vegetables clean the teeth. The fiber scrapes away germs and produces saliva. Saliva neutralizes the acid in your mouth and assists in the prevention of tooth decay. The acid in citrus drinks can erode enamel, so rinse your mouth with water after their consumption. Drinking acidic or dark beverages with a straw lessens the contact of your teeth with harmful liquids.
5) Avoid Tobacco Products
Tobacco products harm teeth and gums and depletes the bloodstream of oxygen. With less oxygen, the gums are vulnerable to infection. Try to avoid tobacco products like cigarettes, chewing tobacco, or cigars.
Call our Orangevale CA Dental Practice to Learn More or to Schedule a Visit
Dr. Larry Cao provides quality preventive, cosmetic, and restorative dental care for Orangevale and all nearby communities. The health of your smile directly impacts your overall well-being. Dr. Cao and the entire team at All Smiles Dental Care is committed to helping their patients maintain long-lasting oral health.