There are a few key factors that keep your oral health optimal. Maintaining a disciplined at-home oral hygiene routine and lifestyle, as well as visiting your dentist for routine exams and cleanings are a sure-fire way to keep your smile radiating health and beauty.
Importance of a Disciplined At-Home Oral Health Routine
It goes without saying that teeth need to be brushed in the morning and in the evening to remove the buildup of plaque. Gently brushing teeth for two minutes, using a toothbrush with soft bristles is recommended. Equally important is the use of a fluorinated toothpaste, which helps strengthen and brighten tooth enamel.
It is just as important to floss your teeth every day. Flossing cleans both the teeth and gums by removing harmful bacteria and it can reach secluded areas your toothbrush cannot. Make sure to use a fresh piece of string for each tooth, so you do not reuse contaminated floss.
Finally, portable or disposable toothbrushes are a great way to freshen you smile while you are on the go. Keeping them available in convenient places like your car, backpack, purse, or briefcase can make oral hygiene convenient.
Professional Exams and Cleanings to Maintain Healthy Smiles
No matter how hard we try, there are hidden corners between our teeth that escape our efforts at cleaning. By seeing your dentist regularly, they are able to catch small issues before they grow into major dental problems. Dental professionals also thoroughly clean away sticky plaque and stubborn tartar from teeth to prevent gum disease and cavities.
Routine visits also include several other important treatments. A screening for oral cancer by your dentist can detect malignancies long before you are able to. When caught early, treatment is very effective. Also, fluoride treatments to strengthen and protect tooth enamel and a tooth-polishing to remove stains are included in routine dental exams.
Healthy Lifestyle Choices for Optimal Oral Health
Finally, many oral health issues can be avoided with a healthy lifestyle. Here are some ways you can maintain oral health:
- Avoid Tobacco Products: Tobacco dries out the mouth, which promotes bacterial growth. Tobacco also weakens gum tissue, increasing your chances of developing gum disease. It is estimated that people who smoke are twice as likely to experience gum disease and tooth loss.
- Reduce Sugar Consumption: After consuming sugars, bacteria release a corrosive acid that causes cavities. Plaque sticks on teeth, wreaking havoc on your tooth enamel.
- Eat Fibrous Foods and Dairy Products: Foods high in fiber like apples, celery and carrots create friction when being chewed which helps remove bacteria from tooth surfaces. Dairy products like yogurt and cheese are also beneficial because they have microbial elements that eliminate bacteria.
Contact Boyd and Boyd Dentistry in Annapolis for Outstanding Oral Health Care
To learn more about how to keep your teeth in optimal shape, give Boyd and Boyd Dentistry a call. Through education, exams, cleanings, and oral cancer screenings, Dr. Cynthia Reed Boyd and Dr. Anthony Boyd will keep your smile healthy and attractive.