Best Practices For A Healthy Smile

Dental issues can be painful and expensive to treat, so it’s important to take good care of your smile. Here are a few habits that help achieve a healthy set of pearly whites.

• Brush at least twice a day

Brushing and flossing regularly are the keys to a healthy smile! For the most effective daily care routine, brush twice a day using fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush. Try to brush for two minutes each time. Clean every surface of your mouth, including the front and back of your tongue and the inside of your cheeks. Rinse your brush before and after cleaning each area of your mouth to keep it free of bacteria and debris.

• Floss at least once a day

Did you know that flossing your teeth every day is as important as brushing your teeth? That’s because flossing helps remove food particles that can get stuck between teeth or under the gum line, eventually causing plaque buildup that can damage the teeth and gums. You should use about 18 inches of floss to wrap around your fingers for a firm grip. Gently work the floss between each tooth and up under your gumline, forming a C shape around your tooth. If you find it challenging to floss in between your back molars, you can use a pre-threaded flosser instead.

• Replace your toothbrush every three months

When you buy a new toothbrush, the bristles tend to be softer than when they first came out of the box. After a few months of use, the bristles begin to wear out and become flattened and less effective in cleaning the teeth. In addition, bacteria can build up on the brush over time. By replacing your toothbrush every few months, you can ensure the bristles are soft enough to clean your teeth properly and that the brush is sanitary. You should also replace your toothbrush after you’ve been sick or when recovering from an illness to prevent reinfection by germs that may still be on your toothbrush.

The ADA recommends replacing your toothbrush every three to four months. Some people may need to replace their brushes at a sooner date if they suffer from gum disease or experience bleeding gums when brushing. It’s important to change your brush often to avoid future problems related to poor oral hygiene.

• Use an antiseptic mouthwash at least once a day

Our mouths can accumulate a lot of bacteria throughout the day, so using an antiseptic mouthwash before bed and in the morning can be an important step in promoting a healthy smile. Be sure to avoid products that are high in alcohol, as they can also damage the soft tissues in your mouth. Instead, look for an antibacterial mouth rinse with fluoride to help strengthen the enamel of your teeth. 

• Eat a healthy diet

The food you eat can have a significant impact on your dental health. Acidic foods and drinks can actually wear away your enamel and cause cavities. Other foods that can cause damage include candy, soda, sugary foods, and fruit juices. If you must consume these treats, limit them to meal times so you can brush your teeth afterward. In addition to limiting how much acidic food you eat and drink, you should also avoid snacking between meals. When you frequently eat throughout the day, your mouth is constantly producing acid, which can wear away your teeth. 

• Schedule regular checkups

Scheduling routine visits every six months will help keep both your oral and physical health in check. In addition to checking for tooth decay, your dentist will also look for signs of gum disease, oral cancer, etc. While you’re at your appointment, you’ll also have your teeth cleaned by a dentist or dental hygienist. You’ll also be screened for cavities and given tips for improving the health and appearance of your smile.

To learn more about good oral care, you can schedule your appointment with our dentist by calling us at (512) 358-1215 or visiting our dental office. We will be happy to guide you further.