Healthy habits are key to maintaining a bright and lasting smile. Small efforts can make a significant difference over time. A routine of brushing and flossing coupled with regular visits to a dentist helps safeguard your smile. Below are some strategies that can help you achieve optimal dental health.
Brush and Floss Daily
Healthy gums and a beautiful smile begin at home. An important first step is making sure to use a proper toothbrush. By using an approved brush, you guarantee that the bristles will not damage the tooth enamel or scrape gums. The ideal toothbrush has soft bristles that easily reach the spaces between teeth. The way you brush is also important. Angle the brush at 45 degrees and use a gentle, short stroke that begins at the gum line and ends at the tip of the tooth. For effective results, replace your toothbrush every 3 months.
The best toothbrush is still not able to reach the crevices between teeth. Always follow up brushing with the use of dental floss. Use an 18 to 22-inch piece to gently floss between each tooth. Be careful to not reuse parts of the string.
Rinsing with an antiseptic mouthwash further eliminates germs. Additionally, a tongue scraper can help prevent bad breath.
Routinely Visit the Dentist
Healthy habits at home deter tooth decay and gum disease. Despite these efforts, it is still important to see a dentist regularly. There are gaps in our teeth and pockets in our gums that cannot always be treated from home. Plaque and tartar often form in those hard to reach areas. The tools and skills of a dental professional are necessary to remove stubborn deposits. A dentist can treat minor issues before they develop into more concerning issues like tooth loss or gum disease.
Choose a Healthy Lifestyle
Keep in mind that sugary foods attract bacteria but rinsing or brushing afterward can help prevent plaque from building up on the enamel. Diets high in fiber are beneficial to teeth, as they help scrape bacteria away and the fiber also neutralizes the acid in the mouth that contributes to tooth decay. Following up a meal with cheese or milk can also reduce harmful acids in the mouth. Chewing an ADA approved sugarless gum is another way to eliminate bacteria.
The use of tobacco products harms your teeth and gums. Tobacco reduces oxygen in the bloodstream and may cause your gums to appear grey. The lack of oxygen prevents the body from fighting infection, and this puts teeth and gums at risk.
Safeguard your smile in Langley
Schedule a routine visit with Saidi Dental Group at (604) 539-9374. Dr. Saidi and Dr. Jin protect and preserve the beauty and health of your smile. Give the office a call in Langley for preventive care that keeps smiles in optimal condition.