A healthy smile is a beautiful smile. Maintaining proper dental hygiene is essential to keeping your teeth strong and resistant to wear over a lifetime of use. Here are seven must-do activities to keep your teeth safe from bacteria and plaque, and help keep you smiling.
1. Brush Twice a Day
Brushing twice a day is one of the most fundamental pieces of advice any dental professional will give to patients. The physical act of brushing teeth dislodges food particles that produce bacteria and plaque before they can be harmful.
In addition to the physical act of brushing, many toothpastes serve to either bolster the tooth with fluoride treatment, freshen the breath, or reduce sensitivity in some brands.
2. Floss Every Day
Have you ever eaten foods that get stuck in between your teeth? This happens on a microscopic level every day, you just can’t see it. Flossing allows individuals to dislodge food particles and clean the hard to reach in between teeth, the areas brushing can’t reach. Flossing has been known to directly lower an individual’s chances of developing gum disease.
3. Rinse with Non-Alcoholic Antiseptic Mouthwash
Rinsing with non-alcoholic antiseptic mouthwash can eliminate germs and pathogens that cause cavities, bad breath, and gingivitis.
4. Maintain a Proper Diet
Limit the amount of sugars in your diet by cutting down on the following: juice, soda, and candy. Sugar feeds harmful bacteria that causes several dental complications, such as cavities, decay, and gingivitis.
On the other hand, foods high in fiber act as natural tooth brushes that clean as teeth rub against the microfibers, removing debris and food particles while you eat. Additionally, maintaining a proper diet improves an individual’s natural ability to fight against harmful pathogens.
5. Drink Plenty of Water
Drinking plenty of water throughout the day allows you to refresh your mouth and wash away any excess food particles and bacteria that has accumulated throughout the day. Water also keeps individuals hydrated, helping to avoid dry mouth.
6. Say “No” to Tobacco
If you needed another reason to kick the habit, your dental health can greatly benefit from refraining from smoking or chewing on teeth-staining tobacco products. Tobacco has been directly related to the destruction of the oral system, mouth cancer, heart disease, and lung disease.
7. See your Dentist
When plaque becomes tartar, your teeth require professional-grade dental tools and techniques to restore optimal dental health. Visiting the dentist at least twice a year allows you to get the proper cleaning you need to keep your teeth healthy by removing and preventing tartar buildup.
Committing to these seven habits will not only improve your dental health, but promote overall wellness as well. To learn more about maintaining good dental hygiene, call or visit our office in Rochelle Park, and schedule an appointment with Dr. Alan Rubin today!