Great dental hygiene means that your teeth are clean and free of debris, bad breath is not a constant problem, and your gums are pink and do not bleed when you brush. Keeping your mouth and teeth in good shape is paramount to your overall good health. You can also lower your dental bills by keeping cavities and gingivitis at bay. The best way to do this is to practice these tips for great dental hygiene every day.
- Avoid plaque build-up with regular brushing and flossing
Plaque contains bacteria and sticks to teeth. It will lead to tooth decay and gum disease if it is not removed. The best way to remove it is to brush your teeth twice a day with a soft-bristled brush. Floss between your teeth once a day to reach those places the brush won’t. Be sure to brush your tongue to remove additional bacteria. - Use an alcohol-free mouthwash to increase the cleanliness of your mouth
An antimicrobial mouth rinse reduces bacteria and plaque to reduce and prevent tooth decay and gingivitis and gum disease. Check with your dentist before using any mouth rinse. Some are not appropriate for all people. There are factors to consider before choosing a mouth rinse such as: age, health history and dental history. At Osborne Family Dental, we want to help you choose what is best for the health of your teeth and gums. - Get regular dental check-ups
Have your teeth professionally cleaned every six months. Your dentist will check for any problems in your mouth while you are there. Many problems can be headed off before they become huge by early detection. Letting someone who knows what to look for examine your mouth is key to prevention. - Eat a balanced diet
Some foods are believed to protect tooth enamel with calcium and phosphorus that are needed to remineralize teeth. This is a natural process where minerals are re-deposited in tooth enamel that has been stripped away with acids caused by sugary foods. Good food choices include milk, cheese, chicken, fish and nuts.Foods high in water content that stimulate the saliva to protect the teeth are firm and crunchy fruits and vegetables like apples and carrots. - Limit sugary snacks
Foods high in sugar are poor choices because they create acid that eats the enamel on the teeth. This includes candy, cookies, cakes, pies, breads, chips, French fries, bananas, raisins, and dried fruits. - Seek treatment early for any problems that arise.
If you have questions, see Osborne Family Dental for expert advice. Contact us to make an appointment for a cleaning or to discuss your dental concerns.