You diligently brush your teeth twice every day, and you try to go to your dental cleaning appointment every six months. That’s enough to maintain your oral health, right? Well, there are so many other things you could do on your own to ensure that your smile remains healthy for the long haul. Check out these five tips to improve your oral hygiene at home from your dentist in Albuquerque.
Floss Daily
Brushing removes a lot of the food particles and plaque that can congregate on your teeth. However, think of all the spaces where your toothbrush bristles can’t reach. That’s a lot of vulnerable surfaces! Plaque can easily accumulate in between teeth and harden, allowing bacteria free access to your teeth and gums and potentially leading to gum disease or tooth decay. Flossing at least once a day clears out this plaque, preventing these serious conditions.
Use Fluoride Products
Fluoride is a mineral that has been proven to strengthen tooth enamel. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention reports that children who live in areas with fluoridated water have fewer cavities than those who don’t. So if your water is fluoridated, drink it! If you’re not doing so already, you should be utilizing fluoride toothpaste when you brush your teeth. You can also opt to use a fluoride mouthwash as part of your daily routine.
Limit Sugary Foods and Drinks
Did you know that what you eat feeds not just you but the bacteria that live in your mouth? These harmful bacteria thrive particularly on sugar and starches. They use them to fuel the production of toxins that attack your teeth and gums. By reducing your consumption of sugar, you can limit the effect bacteria can have on your oral health. Here are just a few examples of things you can cut from your diet to help in this effort:
- Soda.
- Juice.
- Candy.
- Baked goods.
- Potato chips.
- Energy and sports drinks.
Eat a Balanced Diet
Although many foods and drinks can hinder your oral health, others can actually help you have a healthy, clean mouth. The following items are examples of these:
- Water.
- Leafy greens such as spinach.
- Fibrous fruits and vegetables such as apples and carrots.
- Water-filled fruits and vegetables like cucumbers.
- Calcium-rich foods like milk, cheese, and almonds.
Avoid Tobacco
Research is replete with proof that every form of tobacco use is dangerous for your oral health. If you currently smoke or chew tobacco, take the necessary steps to quit so that your long term oral health, in addition to your overall health, can improve.
In the end, how well you take care of your mouth at home can have a huge impact on your oral health. By implementing these tips into your life, your teeth and gums can continue to help you eat, speak, and smile confidently. Just make sure that you also visit your family dentist in Albuquerque every six months for checkups and cleanings as well. That way, you can enjoy your happy, healthy smile for years to come.
About the Author
Since graduating from the Baylor College of Dentistry, Dr. Monica Boehmer has completed over 1,000 hours of continuing education in dental techniques, including neuromuscular courses from the prestigious Las Vegas Institute for Advanced Dental Education. Dr. Boehmer is also a member of the Faculty Club of Spear Education, an advanced Dental Training Institute focused on complex dental procedures. However, with her knowledgeable expertise, she provides compassionate care for every patient, even just for simple, routine checkups. You can contact her for an appointment by calling (505) 271-8009 or clicking here.