A bright beautiful smile is in high demand, but a healthy mouth is even more important. Your oral health is very closely related to your general health. Good oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups are more beneficial than you may realize. Dental decay and tooth loss affect more than just your mouth. These issues used to be a hallmark of age, but we now know they cause detrimental effects to the rest of your body. Here are four important steps to help you keep your teeth and gums healthy.
Brush and Floss
Brush and floss thoroughly at least twice daily to remove plaque. It is best to use a toothpaste with fluoride in it because the fluoride helps protect against cavities. Pay special attention to the gum line where the teeth and gums meet, since this is where plaque settles. Flossing regularly removes tiny food particles and plaque between teeth where brushing can’t reach.
Visit Your Dentist Regularly
Regular dental check-ups and cleanings are vital to your oral health. The dentist can clean your teeth more thoroughly than you can at home and they can let you know if there are areas which need more attention before they become problematic. Even if you see no signs of decay, bi-annual dental visits are still recommended. The trained eye of a professional and advanced technology can spot things you may not.
Get Proper Nutrition
Most of the vitamins and nutrients your body needs comes from the foods you eat. It is important to eat a balanced diet. Avoid sugary drinks and processed foods as much as possible since these serve as empty calories and promote tooth decay. Be sure to get the recommended daily calcium to support healthy teeth.
Make Healthy Choices
A healthy lifestyle is conducive to a healthy mouth and vice versa. Don’t smoke or chew tobacco because nothing good comes from it. Change your toothbrush at least every three months and get plenty of rest.
If you still have questions about keeping your teeth and gums healthy, contact our team at Fresh Dental because a beautiful healthy smile is always our first goal.
