Don’t you love that feeling when someone smiles at you? When their whole face lights up? A person’s smile does more than express emotion. Did you know that the health of your smile and mouth are linked to your overall health? It’s true!
It is imperative to take care of your mouth on a regular basis to avoid issues in the future. There are over 6 million bacteria living in your mouth right now, which is why it’s so important that have healthy habits and to take care of your teeth, gums, and even tongue.
Without proper care for our teeth and gums, bacteria will build up on your teeth in the form of plaque that will potentially cause tooth decay, which could lead to cavities, gingivitis, gum disease.
Your smile is one of the first things people notice about you. A healthy smile can’t be achieved overnight because it takes a variety of methods to help create and maintain it.
To improve and keep up a beautiful smile, here are some healthy habits to use daily in your routine:
- Brush Twice Daily – It is imperative to brush your teeth, gums, and tongue twice daily and use a dentist approved toothpaste to prevent tooth decay.
- Floss Daily – Flossing removes plaque between teeth and out from under the gum lines, where a toothbrush can’t reach. Daily flossing helps prevent tooth decay and gingivitis.
- Replace Your Toothbrush Often – Replace your toothbrush every three to four months, or sooner if the bristles are soft and frayed. A toothbrush with clean bristles is going to be the most effective.
- Stop Smoking – Smoking is a major cause of gum diseases. Along with other major health concerns, smoking can cause oral cancers and stained teeth that are difficult to correct.
- Limit Food and Drinks that will Stain Your Teeth – Drinks like coffee, tea, and red wine are known for staining your teeth. Similar to smoking, these drinks can build up a stain on your teeth on the external, as well as the internal of your tooth enamel. Drinking through a straw can help reduce the possibility of staining your teeth.
- Teeth Whitening – Everyone wants white teeth, but there are bad teeth whitening options out there that will harm the enamel of your teeth.To whiten your teeth, talk with your dentist about the best options for you. Your dentist will recommend an effective procedure based on the discoloration of your teeth and whether you have had tooth bonding or fillings.
- Use Mouthwash – Studies have shown that using both fluoride toothpaste and fluoride mouthwash is more effective than just using fluoride toothpaste alone, in preventing tooth decay. Mouthwash is not recommended for children under the age of 6 years old.
- Visit the Dentist Every 6 Months – It is important to visit the dentist for routine checkups at least twice a year as a preventative and maintenance measure. You can improve not just your oral health, but your overall health, by working with your dentist to decrease your risks for tooth decay, gum disease, and more.
It can take time before you notice changes in the whiteness or health of your teeth. These healthy habits are certainly worth the time and effort for the sake of your smile and your overall health.
It is our mission, here to Rivertown Dental, to ensure you have a beautiful smile you are proud of. Request an appointment online with us today at one of our locations and allow us the privilege of helping take care of your smile!