You go to the family dentist twice a year, but that is not enough. You also need to take care of your oral health at home. Get some tips from a dentist, so you can maintain that healthy smile from one month to the next.
A family dentist will recommend that patients brush at least twice a day, using a soft-bristled toothbrush. Brush in the morning to eliminate bacteria that builds up while sleeping and brush again before bed to remove food particles and bacteria that gather during the day.
It is also important to follow the proper technique for brushing. Hold the toothbrush at a 45-degree angle toward the gumline and brush in small horizontal or circular strokes. Brush each tooth approximately 20 times.
The entire process should take two minutes.
While most people reach for the toothbrush, many forget to follow it up with floss. A toothbrush cannot get in between teeth, so flossing is essential. It removes food particles and bacteria from between the teeth, so floss daily.
Instead of loading up on bottled water, a family dentist will recommend drinking more water out of the tap. Tap water contains fluoride, which is essential for fighting against decay.
Fluoridated drinking water is responsible for reducing decay by 25 percent. That includes both children and adults. Simply adding a glass of fluoridated drinking water can go a long way in preventing decay.
An ice-cold soda might sound tempting, but it is hard on the teeth. The sugar in regular sodas can lead to tooth decay. Both regular and diet sodas are highly acidic, and acid also causes tooth decay.
The acid in sodas can lead to dental erosion. The acid wears down the enamel, making it easier for bacteria to settle in and cause decay.
Many people do not leave home with their toothbrushes in hand. That does not mean people have to let decay win after a meal. They can still protect their teeth without the aid of a toothbrush.
Sugar-free gum promotes the production of saliva, which washes away bacteria and food particles. This cleans the teeth after a meal.
An acidic meal can do a great deal of harm. Fortunately, people can chew a cube of cheese to neutralize the acid. A single cube can restore the pH balance in the mouth.
Brushing, flossing, drinking tap water, avoiding sodas and cleaning teeth after eating are all essential for your oral health. Follow these tips and then go to your family dentist. Your dentist will be pleased with all the work you are putting in at home, and you will be pleased with the results.
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