3 Best Practices For A Healthy Smile

Practicing good oral hygiene is essential for maintaining a healthy smile. Good oral hygiene habits also help prevent cavities and gum disease. Here are a few good oral care habits to follow to maintain healthy teeth and mouth. 

• Brushing and flossing regularly

You should brush your teeth at least twice a day in order to keep your mouth healthy and clean. You should also floss your teeth every day. When you fail to brush and floss, you leave plaque and food particles in your mouth that can attract bacteria. The bacteria can infect your gums and cause gingivitis or gum disease, as well as tooth decay. Gum disease is the leading cause of tooth loss for adults.

Remember to replace your toothbrush every three to four months to prevent bacteria from building up on the bristles. If you struggle to remember to brush twice a day, set the alarm on your phone to help you remember. You can also ask your dentist about incorporating an oral rinse into your routine. Frequent rinsing may help decrease the number of bacteria in your mouth that causes decay and gum disease.

Make sure you choose a soft-bristled toothbrush that won’t irritate your gums. If you have sensitive gums or teeth, talk to your dentist about the best type of toothbrush for you. They might also recommend toothpaste with fluoride to help strengthen your enamel and prevent cavities. Remember to floss your teeth as well to remove any food left behind. Flossing before you brush can help remove any debris and plaque from between the teeth. It also helps prevent the buildup of plaque on your tooth surfaces.

• Avoiding sugary and acidic foods and drinks

When you eat or drink something with sugar in it, it promotes tooth decay by feeding the bacteria in your mouth. Keep your smile strong by avoiding or limiting the intake of the following items.

• Soda and sports drinks
• Candy bars
• Sweets
• Acidic foods
• Dried fruits

These foods not only cause cavities, but they can also irritate your gums and promote gum disease. Your teeth and gums need to stay strong and healthy.

• Seeing your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings

The American Dental Association recommends seeing a dentist at least twice a year for a routine checkup and professional cleaning. During your exam, your dentist will inspect your mouth and gums for signs of gingivitis or gum disease and perform a thorough head and neck exam to check for any abnormalities, such as lumps, lesions, growths, or swollen lymph nodes. Your dentist may also take digital X-rays to detect tooth decay below the enamel surface or any bone loss. Regular checkups allow your dentist to monitor your oral health and address any potential issues quickly before they have time to develop into more serious problems. Additionally, routine professional teeth cleanings are the best way to remove plaque deposits and prevent cavities from forming. If left untreated, oral bacteria buildup can lead to the formation of tooth-decaying acid in your mouth. Most dentists recommend professional teeth cleaning every six months for optimal oral health. However, some patients may need more frequent appointments depending on their oral hygiene habits and the risk of developing certain oral health conditions. Your dentist will be able to determine the right frequency of visits for you during your routine checkup.

Schedule an appointment with Dr. Robert Saunders, DDS & Dr. Brittany Krog, DDS, to learn more about maintaining good oral health. Visit us at 2834 S University Dr, Fargo, ND 58103. Contact us at (701) 293-9886 or visit our website to book an appointment.