When it comes to maintaining healthy and attractive teeth and gums, don’t underestimate the importance of good oral hygiene and a healthy lifestyle. This includes regular brushing and flossing, routine dental visits, a nutritious diet and an overall healthier way of living.
But taking good care of your teeth and gums does more than help you maintain a healthy, bright smile. A healthy mouth and healthy body go hand-in-hand. Here are 6 simple ways to keep your teeth and gums looking and feeling their best.
1. Brushing
It goes without saying that brushing your teeth is essential for avoiding decay and other dental diseases. Brush at least twice a day to protect your teeth from plaque—the sticky, colorless, invisible film of harmful bacteria that builds up on your teeth every day.
2. Flossing
According to the Academy of General Dentistry, only flossing can remove plaque from between teeth and below the gumline where decay and gum disease often begins. Make sure to floss at least once a day to clean the hard-to-reach places where a toothbrush can’t reach.
3. Fluoride
Fluoride found in some drinking water, toothpaste and mouthwashes can stop or even reverse the tooth decay process. It keeps the tooth enamel strong and hard by preventing the loss of important minerals.
4. Dental visits
Always make time in your schedule for the dentist. Two visits a year for a check up and cleaning are recommended. By visiting your San Jose dentist, you can help prevent any oral health problems before they cause pain or require extensive treatment. Your dentist can detect signs of serious dental diseases in their earliest stages, such as decay, gum disease and oral cancer that shouldn’t be ignored.
5. Healthy Diet
The foods you choose have a big affect not only on your general health, but also the health of your teeth and gums. Limit your consumption of sugary and starchy foods, such as soda, candy and cookies that cause cavities. Instead eat a well-balanced diet and limit between-meal snacks to lessen your risk of decay.
6. Avoid Tobacco
Smoking and other tobacco products can open up an array of health problems. People who smoke are at a much higher risk for getting periodontal disease compared to a nonsmoker, and smokers also have a slower recovery and healing time. Talk to your San Jose dentist or primary physician to learn ways to kick this habit.
