Through studies conducted over years, it has become evident that oral hygiene and overall health are closely related. Insufficient dental care leads to gum disease, a common condition that, if left untreated, can lead not only to tooth loss but systemic illness as well.
The best way to avoid the progression of gum disease is by employing a proper oral hygiene regimen including the right tools and techniques.
Six Steps to a Healthier Smile
See your dentist regularly – Besides daily home dental care, routine dental visits are the foundation of your dental health. If you don’t see your dentist regularly, you will likely experience treatment on an emergency basis, but those problems could have been avoided. Once a dental issue becomes an emergency, changes of saving a damaged tooth with conservative methods are low.
Brushing your teeth - The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends brushing in the morning and evening, before bedtime, with a soft-bristled brush and toothpaste. The amount and type of toothpaste needed depend on your age and oral health concerns.
Choose the right toothbrush – one that is easy to grasp and has a small enough head to navigate into hard-to-reach areas, as these harbor the bacteria that leads to tooth decay.
Use the correct brushing technique - Place the toothbrush at a 45-degree angle toward your gum line and gently move the bristles back and forth in small strokes. Brush the front, back and top surfaces of each tooth. Don’t forget to brush your tongue too, as bacteria can remain there.
Clean between teeth – Use floss or an interdental cleaner daily to remove food particles that get trapped between teeth and create cavities.
Use a Dental Rinse – Depending on your needs, therapeutic mouthwashes can help strengthen enamel and reduce plaque, gingivitis, bad breath, and tooth decay. Children younger than the age of 6 should not use mouthwash unless directed by a dentist.
In addition to these tips, it is important to eat healthily and drink plenty of water; good nutrition greatly contributes to your oral and overall health. Limit snacking and sugary foods, as the oral bacteria that cause tooth decay feeds on sugars and carbohydrates.
Call today to learn more about improving your oral health or to schedule an appointment at our Port Arthur, TX dental office.