Having healthy teeth takes care and mindful cleanliness, and while it won’t require the same level of effort as overall bodily care, its effects are nearly as important. Even if you already have a good set of teeth, you still need to take care of them every day to prevent dental health issues.
Any orthodontics or dental expert in Belmont can offer a few pieces of advice to that end. You can see some of these suggestions below.
Brush Your Teeth Regularly
Almost everyone is aware that brushing your teeth at least twice a day is the most crucial practice in dental care. Brushing removes the build-up of plaque and bacteria on your teeth and gums. Take note, however, that brushing your teeth will only be effective if you use the right technique.
When brushing your teeth, do it in circular motions. Brush the front, back, and top of each tooth, and do it for 2 to 3 minutes. Avoid brushing in a back-and-forth motion, which will only damage the enamel and spread food acids across your mouth, especially if you’ve just eaten.
In addition, using a hard-bristled toothbrush or aggressively brushing your teeth can damage your gums and tooth enamel. It can lead to gum erosion, tooth sensitivity, and permanent damage to the teeth’s protective film.
Use Toothpaste or Dental Products That Contain Fluoride
Experts suggest that people should use toothpaste and other dental products that have fluoride in it. Fluoride helps prevent cavities.
That said, take care when shopping for dental products because some of them don’t contain fluoride at all. Studies suggest that a lack of fluoride can result in tooth decay even if you take care of your teeth. Flossing and brushing don’t prevent you from getting cavities if you don’t use fluoride.
In addition, some mouthwash products now contain fluoride. Though mouthwash is mostly meant to kill bacteria and give you fresh breath, properly gargling with a fluoride-containing mouthwash can provide for your teeth’s fluoride requirements if your toothpaste doesn’t have it.
Floss Your Teeth Once a Day
Flossing is an effective way to remove bacteria and plaque between the teeth. Usually, that area can’t be reached and cleaned by a simple toothbrushing. It also prevents bad breath by getting rid of food particles and other debris that are trapped between the teeth.
Attend a Dental Checkup
According to your dentist, you should drop by a dental clinic for a checkup every six months at the least. Depending on the extent of your dental issues (if any), your attending dental health team will consist of several or different dental practitioners.
For example, a dental hygienist is responsible for cleaning the teeth and removing hardened tartar and plaque. Meanwhile, a dentist can check your teeth for any signs of cavities, mouth cancer, gum disease, and other oral health issues. For more pressing concerns, an orthodontist can check the structural integrity of your teeth and make sure your teeth are properly aligned.
A dental health team consists of dental health professionals. However, the most crucial part of this team consists of you. By working together, you can prevent lots of dental problems, which can cause potential medical complications that can diminish your quality of life.