Most people know that they should visit their dentist regularly and brush and floss their teeth daily, but many still don’t follow these simple tips. By ignoring dental care, you can cause long-term damage to your teeth that will require expensive treatment down the road. Here are dental care tips you shouldn’t ignore if you want to keep your teeth healthy and sparkling:
Visit your dentist regularly
It’s important to visit your dentist regularly, even if you have no current dental issues. Your dentist can detect early signs of problems, such as tooth decay, gum disease, and oral cancer. During a regular check-up, your dentist will also clean your teeth and check for any signs of wear and tear. This allows them to spot any potential problems early and prevents them from becoming more serious. In addition, regular visits to the dentist can help to improve your overall oral health.
Brush and floss your teeth daily
It’s no secret that brushing and flossing your teeth is important for maintaining good oral health. But what many people don’t realize is that brushing and flossing also play an important role in preventing gum disease. Gum disease is a serious condition that can lead to tooth loss, and the build-up of plaque on teeth often causes it. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on teeth, and it can be very difficult to remove. However, brushing and flossing help to remove plaque from teeth, and they also help to prevent gum disease.
Avoid sugary drinks and snacks
Although brushing and flossing are important for maintaining healthy teeth, what you eat and drink also plays a role. Sugary drinks and snacks can increase the risk of tooth decay because the sugar interacts with bacteria in your mouth to form acids. These acids can damage the enamel of your teeth, leading to cavities. In addition, sugary drinks are often high in calories, contributing to weight gain. This can put additional strain on your teeth and gums and make them more susceptible to infection. Therefore, it is best to avoid sugary drinks and snacks as much as possible to maintain healthy teeth.
Don’t smoke or chew tobacco
Smoking and chewing tobacco are two of the worst things you can do for your teeth. Not only does tobacco use cause bad breath and stained teeth, but it also increases your risk for gum disease and oral cancer. Chewing tobacco is especially harmful because it exposes your teeth to a constant stream of sugar, which promotes tooth decay. Tobacco use also decreases saliva production, leading to dry mouth and an increased risk for cavities.
Get a dental check-up every six months
It’s important to see a dentist every six months for a professional cleaning and examination. This gives the dentist a chance to remove any plaque or tartar build-up and check for signs of tooth decay or gum disease. It’s also an opportunity to ask questions about oral health and get professional advice on caring for your teeth. During the cleaning, the dentist will also look for any signs of oral cancer. If caught early, oral cancer is highly treatable. The dentist will also see if you need an orthodontic appliance to help straighten your teeth. Therefore, regular dental visits are essential for maintaining good oral health.
Use a fluoridated toothpaste
Regular brushing with fluoridated toothpaste is one of the most effective ways to prevent tooth decay. Fluoride helps strengthen teeth and makes them more resistant to the acids that cause cavities. It is important to use a pea-sized amount of toothpaste on your toothbrush and brush for two minutes at least twice a day. Some people may be concerned about the safety of fluoride, but it is very safe when used as directed. Fluoride is so effective at preventing cavities that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has named it one of the top 10 public health achievements of the 20th century.
Wear a mouthguard when playing sports
Mouthguards are an important piece of safety equipment for athletes of all ages. They help to protect the teeth and jaws from impact and can reduce the risk of concussion. While mouthguards are not required for all sports, they are strongly recommended for contact sports such as football, hockey, and lacrosse. Mouthguards can be custom-fitted by a dentist or purchased over the counter. When choosing a mouthguard, be sure to select one that is comfortable and does not restrict breathing. Mouthguards should be worn during all practices and games to ensure maximum protection.
Final Thoughts
Maintaining good oral health is important for your overall health and well-being. By following the simple tips in this article, you can keep your teeth healthy and sparkling!
