Your family dentist is your partner in developing and keeping up with healthy habits to support your teeth and gums. Consult with your dentist if you have any questions or concerns about your oral health. Keeping your smile healthy allows you to help keep your body healthy too. Here are four tips for a healthy smile from your family dentist.
See your dentist twice a year.
Keep up your regular appointments with your dentist. Your dentist is able to evaluate your oral health and advise you on the best practices for keeping your smile healthy and bright. Make an appointment every six months for a check-up with your dentist, as well as an in-office cleaning. Your dentist is able to advise you on the best things you can do to care for your teeth and gums with an individual care plan that takes your lifestyle into account.
Drink water after eating.
The best way to remove food particles and residues from between your teeth and gums is to brush your teeth after eating; however, you may not always be able to do this. The next best thing you can do is drink plain water after eating. Drinking water after eating helps to rinse food off of your teeth. Additionally, it will help to dilute acid produced by bacteria in your mouth, lessening the damaging effects of the acid on your teeth.
Change your toothbrush three times a year.
You cannot practice good oral hygiene without having the right tools. You should make sure that you are using a toothbrush that can adequately remove debris and plaque from your teeth and gums. With regular use, the bristles of your toothbrush become worn out. Replace your toothbrush every four months or so to ensure that you have the right tools to clean your teeth.
Eat a varied and healthy diet.
Just like your other body parts, your teeth and gums benefit from healthy foods. Make sure that you are consuming a variety of nutrient-dense foods to support good oral health. For example, sufficient levels of vitamin D have been found to lower your chances of developing gingivitis. Calcium-rich foods that support bone health such as milk, yogurt, and cheese also help you build healthy teeth. Fiber-rich foods such as apples, broccoli, and legumes help your body produce more saliva. The saliva helps to reduce the effect of enzymes and acids that attack your tooth enamel.
For more information, contact a local dentist.