5 Tips From a Family Dentist to Dramatically Improve Your Oral Health

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.

1. Brush twice a day

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.

Brushing technique

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.

2. Floss every day

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.

3. Drink tap water

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.

Reducing tooth decay with fluoride

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.

4. Avoid sodas

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.

Acid and 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.

5. Care for the teeth after eating

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.

Chew Sugar-free Gum

Sugar-free gum promotes the production of saliva, which washes away bacteria and food particles. This cleans the teeth after a meal.

Eat a Cube of Cheese

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.

Follow these family dentist tips for better oral health

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.

Request an appointment here: https://dragonflydentalportcharlotte.com or call Dragonfly Dental of Port Charlotte at (941) 676-9225 for an appointment in our Port Charlotte office.

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