Practicing good oral health habits is about much more than having a sparkling smile. In fact, studies show that dental health is closely tied to the body’s overall health. Specifically, poor oral health has been linked to serious health conditions like heart disease and diabetes. To ensure you are doing all you can to maximize both your dental health and physical health, consider the following tips:
Be consistent with at home care. Between your regularly scheduled dental check-ups, you are responsible for maintaining your oral hygiene at home. So, make sure that you’re brushing your teeth at least twice a day- at morning and before heading to bed at night. Flossing daily is also essential; floss can get to those hard to reach areas that your toothbrush misses. You might also consider using an antiseptic mouth rinse to help rid your mouth of harmful bacteria.
Be mindful of what you eat. It is no secret that a sugar-loaded diet can damage your oral health. However, sugar isn’t the only culprit behind tooth decay. In fact, how often you eat plays a larger role in maintaining oral health than what you’re eating. For example, if you snack constantly throughout the day, food particles are continuously on your teeth– a prime recipe for developing decay. When you do snack, avoid sticky and sugary foods. Opt instead for teeth-friendly options like carrot sticks, celery, yogurt, and cheese.
Visit your dentist regularly. Regardless of how well you are caring for your teeth at home, you still need professional dental care. Most dentists recommend that you visit their office every six months for check-ups and professional cleanings. This will help ensure that any developing oral health concerns are detected and treated early, before they develop into more serious problems that require extensive restorative treatment.
Chew (sugar-free) gum between meals. It might seem odd to consider that gum can be beneficial to your dental health, but chewing sugar-free gum between meals can actually help defend your teeth against acid attacks. That’s because gum encourages saliva production, which helps rinse away food particles and defend against acid produced by plaque bacteria.
Are you ready to take charge of your oral health? Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you achieve your healthiest smile.