Who would not wish to smile while showing out-of-perfect whiter teeth? Achieving this is possible by taking proper care of your teeth and gums.
Absolutely true! Many of us dread the thought of sitting in a dentist’s chair with various tools probing our mouths. So, why not prioritize the well-being of your gums and teeth by regular brushing and, most importantly, avoiding those unpleasant visits to the dentist? It’s crucial to establish good dental habits. Failure to do so not only puts you at risk of developing bad breath, gum and tooth infections but the bacteria responsible for these issues can also lead to digestive problems, respiratory issues, and heart conditions.
Brushing, Flossing, and Rinsing
Two essential activities form the foundation of basic dental care.
- Brush at least twice a day, preferably after each meal. Use a fluoride toothpaste as it helps prevent cavities and gingivitis. Toothpaste contains abrasives that aid in removing plaque, a transparent film filled with bacteria that adheres to teeth and gums. If not removed, plaque hardens into tartar, which must be professionally removed by a dentist. Individuals with sensitive teeth may consider using a toothpaste recommended by their dentist. Use a soft-bristled brush, brushing for 2-3 minutes, and don’t forget to clean your tongue and the roof of your mouth. Replace your toothbrush every three months.
- Flossing is essential to remove tiny food particles trapped between your teeth, which brushing alone cannot accomplish. Hold the floss in a C-shaped bend, slide it between your teeth, and move it back and forth. Be cautious not to floss too vigorously to avoid harming your gums. Floss at least once a day. Rinse your mouth with antimicrobial and fluoride mouthwash twice a day to prevent tooth decay, plaque buildup, and gingivitis.
Eating Right
Your diet plays a crucial role in maintaining oral health. It’s common knowledge that sugar leads to tooth decay. Sugary foods contribute to the production of acids in the mouth, and these acids are slow to dissolve. They linger on the teeth longer, and prolonged exposure to these acids can erode tooth enamel, causing damage to your teeth.
Consuming sugary foods alongside a meal may be less harmful as saliva production increases, aiding in washing away the acids. The key is to minimize sugar intake, and if you do indulge, ensure you brush your teeth or rinse your mouth immediately afterward. Items like candies, mints, cakes, pies, and cough drops are all high in sugar content and should be consumed sparingly.
If you enjoy sweetened cereal, never eat it dry—always add milk. Similarly, highly acidic foods, especially citrus fruits, should ideally be consumed as part of a meal to minimize the harmful effects of acids.
Here’s what you should include in your diet: whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and dairy products. These elements are essential components of your diet. Foods rich in calcium and phosphorus are excellent for your teeth, helping deposit minerals onto tooth enamel (which can get worn away when consuming sugary or acidic foods).
Examples include chicken, fish, meat, cheese, sesame seeds, milk, yogurt, and nuts. Take breaks between snacks and meals. Enjoy crunchy fruits, celery, carrots, etc., as they increase saliva production and flow, effectively washing away food particles and keeping your teeth clean.
Other Considerations
Regular visits to the dentist are a necessity. Schedule an appointment every six months for professional dental cleaning at Bur Oak Dental, your trusted Markham dentist. If you notice swollen and bleeding gums or experience persistent toothaches, don’t delay seeing the dentist. Timely intervention against these issues, provided by our Markham dental experts at Bur Oak Dental, can save you from serious ailments in the future.
Dental care for children from a young age is crucial for maintaining healthy teeth. Take your child to the dentist when their first tooth appears so the doctor can assess their oral health and provide any necessary recommendations. Never let your child fall asleep with a bottle of milk or juice in their mouth, as these liquids can pool, and the sugar in them can be a significant cause of tooth decay.
Quit tobacco. The use of tobacco products should be strictly avoided. Not only do they stain your teeth, but their consumption is an open invitation to dental and throat cancer.
Chewing on hard items like pens can damage your teeth.
It’s a well-known fact that maintaining oral hygiene plays a vital role in an individual’s overall health. Poor dental health is often linked to other ailments. Begin and end your day by caring for your teeth. Take good care of your teeth and gums at Bur Oak Dental, and you won’t hesitate to showcase your smile—a tremendous confidence booster, fostering a pleasant social life.