Your oral care shouldn’t begin and end with your regular checkup and cleaning in your dentist’s office. Your oral health is not to be taken lightly, and you should take initiative to take care of your teeth and mouth – in-between those visits.
Here’s what dentists in Plantation FL want your to remember:
Floss… Every day!
Not only does regular flossing help keep your gums healthy and guard against gum disease, but flossing before brushing helps you get toothpaste and toothbrush bristles down into those hard-to-reach places in-between your teeth. Plus regular flossing helps cut down on tartar and plaque, which makes your cleanings faster and easier and helps you avoid gingivitis.
Don’t skip your cleanings
When it does come time for your cleaning, don’t skip it, even if you’ve been taking good care of your teeth. A preventive exam and checkup can spot problem areas long before they become big trouble, saving you the trouble of going through big procedures that could have been avoided.
Use a fluoride rinse
After brushing, choosing a mouthwash that contains fluoride can help protect your enamel and guard against tooth decay.
Replace your toothbrush
If you’ve had your toothbrush longer than you can remember, throw it out! Once those bristles start to become tattered and frayed, chances are, your brush isn’t as effective as it needs to be. Otherwise, you should replace your toothbrush every three or four months.
Keep good brushing habits
Make sure that you brush your teeth at least twice a day, or after every meal. You should definitely brush your teeth 30 minutes after eating sweets – this will prevent the buildup of acid that will wear down your enamel.
Avoid excess sugars
About those sweets – you’ll want to avoid them if you can. Excess sugar can lead to plaque and bacteria, which releases those acids mentioned above. These acids are one of the main culprits of tooth decay, and when those acids keep building up, they’re bound to lead to cavities.
By keeping on top of your oral care at home, you can avoid trouble when you come in for your cleaning, and stay one step ahead with your health. Of course, if you have any questions about your regimen or what you should be doing for your optimal oral health, ask your dentist. They’ll certainly thank you – and you’ll be thanking yourself!
West Side Dental Center offers consultations for a variety of medical and cosmetic dental services. Contact us today to schedule an appointment!
