A quick Internet search on how to look after your teeth will bring up many results. But how do you know what’s true and what’s false? Looking after your teeth and gums isn’t complicated or time-consuming. Read on for easy tips to help keep your smile in great shape.
- Brush Your Teeth Twice a Day
We are sure you’ve heard this advice repeatedly, but it’s really non-negotiable if you want strong, healthy teeth and gums. Brushing removes dental plaque and food debris that could cause cavities and gum disease in Whitby.
- Brush Your Tongue
Remember to gently brush your tongue using your toothbrush or a special tongue scraper. Your tongue can easily trap bacteria, causing bad breath and increasing the risk of oral disease.
- Change Your Toothbrush Frequently
Your toothbrush or toothbrush head will only last two or three months. Get into the habit of noting when you begin using a new one so you know when to change it. Other signs your toothbrush is past its best include splayed and worn bristles.
- Use the Right Toothbrush
Choose a toothbrush with soft bristles that won’t damage your teeth and gums. After using, rinse thoroughly and leave it to air dry. Bacteria can thrive on a damp toothbrush.
- Floss Once-A-Day
Daily flossing is equally important as brushing, and hygienists can always tell when someone flosses regularly. Flossing your teeth removes plaque and food debris from hard-to-reach areas.
If you fail to floss, you are at a real risk of developing gum disease in Oshawa. This serious condition can cause tooth loss or even affect overall health.
- Use Good Quality Toothpaste
Choose good quality toothpaste validated by the Canadian Dental Association with the CDA seal on the packaging.
Choosing toothpaste with this seal ensures that the product has been independently reviewed and any claims it makes to improve oral health are supported with scientific evidence.
- Reduce Your Sugar Intake
Sugar is found in numerous products, even where you least expect it, so get into the habit of reading labels and trying to reduce your intake.
It is a problem because bacteria feed off leftover sugary food particles, allowing them to multiply faster. Reducing the amount of sugar you consume will help limit this activity.
- Follow a Healthy Diet
Following a healthy diet will protect your overall health and help your dental health. Good nutrition is essential for strong teeth and healthy gums.
Try to include plenty of fruits and vegetables, especially crunchy ones, as these help promote saliva flow. Good saliva production helps to wash away harmful bacteria, enabling your mouth to maintain a more neutral pH more easily.
- Stay Hydrated
Talking of saliva, you need good hydration to produce enough of this protective liquid. The best way to stay hydrated is with ordinary tap water.
If you want to drink a flavored beverage, check its sugar content. If it is reduced in calories or has zero sugar, check that it isn’t too acidic. Often, sugar is replaced with other ingredients like citric acid to make the beverage taste good, but these acids can erode your tooth enamel and increase the risk of cavities.
- See Us Regularly
Remember to come and see us regularly. Most people need to see a dentist in Ajax every six months. Schedule your hygiene appointment simultaneously, and you will only need to spend about an hour or less with us.
Regular professional preventive dentistry is an easy way to ensure your smile looks good year-round and saves you time and money in the long term.
