Your semiannual exams with your dentist are tremendously important to maintaining good oral health, but you need to engage in a number of other healthy habits in addition to getting your professional cleanings and regular checkups.
Minimizing the presence of oral bacteria is a keystone of dental care, whether it takes place in the dentist’s office or at your own home.
Your dentist would be remiss if he or she didn’t encourage you to practice the oral hygiene basics of brushing and flossing, and this point can’t be emphasized enough. Brushing twice a day and flossing daily help to keep those disease-causing bacteria in check.
Be sure that you are brushing for a long enough period of time and using the right technique, or your daily routine may be falling short in getting rid of plaque and tartar. Ask your dentist if you need a refresher on proper brushing techniques. Replace your toothbrush regularly to make sure that it continues to be effective.
Patients who have significant problems with proliferate oral bacteria may also want to add an anti-bacterial mouthwash to their regimen as an additional protective measure.
Positive dental habits go beyond the scope of your daily oral hygiene routine, though. Many patients don’t realize that their diets have a significant influence on their oral health. Get a well-rounded collection of vitamins and minerals to promote strong teeth, and steer clear of sweet, sticky treats and sodas that can damage the teeth.
If you are unable to brush after every meal, a quick rinse with water will at least help to remove any food debris that remains in the mouth. Chewing sugarless gum after meals will also increase saliva production and have a similar effect.
A thorough dental routine will help to prevent tooth decay and gum disease. Remember that a healthy mouth is a gateway to a healthy body, and diseases that affect your oral health may be connected to other systemic conditions. This may give you extra motivation to keep up with your healthy dental habits, in addition to keeping up a beautiful smile.
To schedule your next professional cleaning and exam, call Family Smiles Dental Group at 972-539-0608 today. Our experienced dentist in Flower Mound is here to help you.