Keeping your teeth healthy and happy is important to your overall well-being. While you can’t control things like genetics, there are certain habits that you can adopt to help keep your teeth strong and prevent cavities, plaque buildup, and other dental issues. Fortunately, with a little bit of determination and diligence, it’s easier than ever to maintain a healthy smile. Here are some helpful tips for keeping your smile happy and healthy.
Brush Twice A Day
The most important part of keeping your teeth clean and healthy is brushing them twice a day. Make sure to brush your teeth at least once in the morning and once before bed every day. By brushing your teeth twice a day, you will help keep plaque buildup to a minimum in between visits to the dentist and ensure that your teeth and gums are healthy.
Visit A Dentist
Your teeth are the foundation of your being and your smile, so it’s important to see a dentist for a checkup and cleaning at least once a year. This will allow the dentist to check your teeth and give you advice on how to keep them healthy and strong. Dentists can also help you identify if there are any issues that might lead to tooth loss later in life, such as gum disease or excess wear and tear. If you have any concerns, it’s a good idea to speak to a dentist as soon as possible. There are plenty of dentists you can choose from in your local area, but if you’re on the lookout for a private dentist, check out Cheriton Dental Practice in Christchurch.
Floss Daily
Flossing is a great way to keep your smile healthy and clean, removing plaque and food particles from between your teeth below the gum line that a toothbrush can’t reach. Regularly flossing helps prevent gum disease and tooth loss. While it may seem like an ordeal the first time you try to floss, it’s actually pretty simple. Simply wind the floss around your two fingers and slide it into your mouth between the teeth, with the tapered end going towards the gums. Gently pull the floss between the teeth and towards the gum line.
Drink Water
Water is essential for daily living; it helps your body flush out toxins, hydrate your skin and organs, and is the best way to avoid dehydration. When it comes to your teeth, water helps to flush out the residue of your meals, which can leave behind acidic residue that can damage teeth. Additionally, water also helps to aid in your digestion, meaning it can reduce acid reflux which can also damage your tooth enamel.
Cut Down On Sugar
Regularly eating foods with a high sugar content can lead to cavities and other dental issues. While you can’t completely avoid sweets like birthday cake, there are ways to reduce the amount of sugar you consume. You can start by reading the nutrition facts on food packaging to learn how much sugar is actually in the things you eat on a regular basis. You can also check out some helpful resources online or ask your dentist or doctor for tips on cutting back on sugar.
