While there may be a standard of what a smile should look like, we desire that our patients simply have good oral health. Not everyone will have what is believed to be a “picture-perfect” smile, but everyone can have a healthy one!
Oral health doesn’t have to be complicated. In fact, gaining and maintaining optimal oral health is easy when you follow the guidelines of a trusted dentist.
In this blog, our Lombard dentist explains seven oral health tips to help you achieve a smile that reflects who you truly are.
1. Brush twice a day
It shouldn’t come as a surprise to anyone that brushing is our first oral hygiene tip. This is where your oral hygiene routine should begin! Brushing your teeth should be the bookends to your day.
Almost as important as when you brush, is what you brush your teeth with. Soft-bristled toothbrushes are the safest for your dental enamel and are still as effective at cleaning your teeth. You may also want to consider an automatic toothbrush.
Search for a toothpaste with fluoride and the American Dental Association seal of approval. Most other aspects are based on preference; however, your dentist may have specific recommendations for your smile.
2. Floss daily
Flossing is essential because toothbrushes don’t reach between the teeth. Throughout the day, food particles, debris, and bacteria get lodged between the teeth and must be removed. When those particles aren’t removed, plaque and tartar will quickly form and may eventually lead to gum disease.
Be sure to floss your teeth at least once a day in the evening, after your last meal.
3. Switch out your toothbrush often
Over time, bacteria accumulate on a toothbrush and becomes ineffective and may even be a detriment to your oral health. Switch out your toothbrush every three or four months to ensure that your toothbrush is helping your smile, not hurting it.
4. Rinse with an antimicrobial mouthwash
When used in combination with brushing and flossing, an antimicrobial mouthwash can help reduce plaque and the development of cavities and gingivitis. An antimicrobial mouthwash can also promote healing for people who have ulcers and sores.
5. Eat a mouth-friendly diet
What you put in your mouth is just as important for your oral health as it is for your overall health. Sugar and carbs help create an environment where disease-causing bacteria thrive. To encourage a healthy and balanced mouth, stick to these types of foods:
- Fruits
- Leafy, green vegetables
- Whole grains
- Lean proteins
- Low-fat dairy foods
It’s also important to drink plenty of water throughout the day to clean your mouth and balance the bacteria.
6. Quit bad habits
Nail biting, chewing ice, tobacco use, and using your teeth as tools are some of the worst things you can do for your oral health. These habits will damage your dental enamel and put you at risk of having a chipped tooth, developing gum disease, and tooth loss.
7. Visit the dentist every six months
According to the American Dental Association, patients should visit the dentist every six months or as instructed by their dentist. These dental cleaning and exam appointments give your dentist the opportunity to check for signs of decay, gum disease, bruxism, and oral cancer so she can treat them in their earliest stages.
Visit Our Lombard Dentist Today
At Dental Care of Lombard, our team is passionate about helping achieve optimal oral health through conservative and compassionate care. Dr. Julie Glud has helped thousands of patients of all ages gain and maintain a smile they are proud of.
To learn more about our dentist and how you can achieve a beautiful smile, contact us today at 630-629-5700.
