(305) 857-3731Taking care of your teeth is a great way to increase your confidence and self-image, as well as improve your overall mental health. Your teeth and gums are often the first things people notice about you, so you should treat them well. Taking care of them is also an important aspect of maintaining your physical health. But what can you do to ensure your teeth stay healthy? Keep reading to learn more about the benefits of oral hygiene and the steps you can take today to keep your pearly whites smiling.
Brush Your Teeth the Right Way
While you’re probably already brushing your teeth twice a day, it’s a good idea to evaluate your technique to ensure you’re doing it right. Make sure you hold the bristles at approximately a 45-degree angle facing upwards and move the brush in a circular or sweeping motion against your teeth and gums. Brush gently so that you don’t unintentionally damage or scrape your gums, and don’t forget the back teeth, as that’s often where food gets stuck. If it’s in your budget, an electric toothbrush may be a good investment as it can often remove more debris than brushing manually. Most dentists recommend brushing for about two minutes each session to ensure you cover the entire area.
Don’t Forget to Floss
Many people leave out flossing in their oral hygiene routine, but it’s an important step that has a big impact on your health. Flossing removes food that’s stuck between your teeth, which if left alone, could result in increased bacteria and plaque. To floss correctly, break off a 20-inch piece of floss and wind it around your middle fingers, leaving about an inch and a half to floss with. Holding it tight, glide the dental floss up and down between your teeth, only gently tapping your gums. To get the sides, curve the floss slightly before pulling it back up. If you prefer, use a floss pick, which comes with the floss pre-loaded onto the stick for easy use.
Diet is Important
What you eat impacts your teeth and gums. There are several foods that you should include in your diet to maintain good oral hygiene. Besides being good for your bones, milk is excellent for your teeth’s health as it is rich in calcium. Yogurt is also rich in calcium, as well as probiotics that protect against cavities and bad breath. Try to avoid foods high in sugar such as candy, which can cause cavities and decay. And be sure to drink a lot of water, especially water with fluoride. Water helps wash away food particles and fluoride helps fight cavities.
See Your Dentist Regularly
Regular checkups with your dentist are a very significant part of an effective oral hygiene routine. Dental checkups allow dentists to check for small issues and treat them before they become major problems. And it’s a good idea to go for regular cleanings to keep your teeth in good shape and looking their best; most dentists recommend two cleanings a year unless there are warning signs that need to be monitored.
Call Today for a Consultation
If you’re looking for the best ways to improve your oral health, visit our office to discuss your specific needs with our experienced staff. We work with our patients to ensure they have the smile they want, whether that’s with regular cleanings or cosmetic dentistry. Don’t wait – call today for an appointment and put your health first.