The journey to a healthy smile is one that is never-ending; it is a constant maintenance effort that is well worth the benefits. A dentist can assist patients with semi-annual cleanings, advice, and check-ups, but ultimately it is a patient’s responsibility to themselves and their teeth to implement a daily maintenance routine.
A healthy smile is a beautiful smile. This guide will offer tips and tricks to help you keep your smile clean, healthy, and beautiful.
1. The Basics: Brushing
Brush your teeth a minimum of twice a day. It’s important to brush your teeth both in the morning and before bed. Plaque builds up on teeth as we sleep, and the acidity of the mouth changes as well. If we neglect to brush, these conditions create an ideal environment for tooth decay. Brush at night to remove the accumulated food particles, debris, and scum from the surface of your teeth.
2. Flossing is Fundamental
Flossing is an oft neglected aspect of at-home dental care. Some find it time-consuming or unnecessary. But if neglected, the detriment to your oral health will become evident in time. Flossing is essential for keeping the spaces between teeth free of plaque. If this plaque is left undisturbed, it can accumulate under the gum line and cause gingivitis. Floss at least once a day. It’s most effective to do so before bed, to remove the particles left over from the day’s meals.
3. Oil Pulling
Did you know that swishing oil in your mouth for 20 minutes a day can have immense benefits? This holistic practice has been around for centuries. One simply passes coconut oil in their mouth for 20 minutes a day, either consecutively or in sessions. It’s important to spit the oil out afterwards, as it will be laden with germs and toxins. One benefit of this practice is the oil saturates the teeth and gums and helps keep the mouth hydrated. It also helps maintain a healthy oral flora.
4. Mindful Eating
Dietary choices influence the health of our teeth. A diverse diet rich in bone-healthy nutrients like calcium will keep your teeth strong. Avoid excess sugar, as it is a detriment to the body as well as the oral structure. Choose sugar-free beverages, and drink plain water more often than not.
5. Upkeep-on-the-Go
Carry floss picks and never let food rot between your teeth. Use a convenient and quick floss pick to clean between the teeth after every meal, even when out on the town. It’s imperative that teeth aren’t in prolonged contact with foods, as these particles will feed the bacteria that are responsible for plaque and tartar.
For more information on keeping your smile healthy, visit Mascola, Nakata, & Associates Dental Corporation. We look forward to working with you!