A healthy, strong smile doesn’t just happen on its own. Like a beautiful garden, it takes care — and your dentist in San Antonio wants to remind you it comes from the steps you take between your twice-annual dental checkup and cleaning. Are you maintaining the very best dental hygiene routine? We’ve got some best practices for healthier teeth, fresher breath and a stronger smile. Keep reading to learn how to improve your dental health, and share your own best practices in the comments below!
#1: Set a timer
When it comes time to brush, many adults are surprised at how long two minutes really is. But brushing for the full amount of time, spending 30 seconds on each quadrant of the mouth, is important for the most thorough clean. So what can you do to make sure you’re getting the full two minutes in, every time? Use the stopwatch on your phone! Or better yet, invest in an electric toothbrush that comes with an automatic timer.
#2: Commit to your floss
Many people want to floss daily, but they simply can’t make a habit out of it. But regular flossing is vital for removing the bacteria and food particles your toothbrush just can’t reach. To develop the habit, you must first commit to it. Promise yourself you won’t go to sleep without flossing, and then put the stuff somewhere you’re sure to see it every evening.
#3: Seek out hidden sugar
You know the common sugar offenders, like soda, candy and your favorite desserts. But what about your morning granola and yogurt? Or your favorite bottled tea or juice? You could be unknowingly exposing your teeth to a significant amount of sugar — and when it’s not thoroughly removed with good brushing and flossing, you’re also setting yourself up for cavities. Check the labels on your favorite foods to help you know what you’re consuming.
#4: Add a mouthwash
Mouthwash is an effective supplement to a solid oral hygiene routine, but please don’t mistake it for a replacement for brushing and flossing. Instead, add a mouthrinse as an extra step to help fight the bacteria that causes plaque and gingivitis. Choose an FDA approved solution to make sure you’re getting all the good benefits mouthwash can offer.
#5: Break bad habits
Nail biting, pen chewing and using teeth as tools — these are all bad habits that can quickly lead to breaks, chips, fractures and other wear and tear on the teeth. You may not even be aware of these habits, so pay close attention to what you’re exposing your teeth to for better dental health.
Do you have questions about something we’ve mentioned here, or anything else related to your dental health? If so, don’t wait to get in touch with your San Antonio Dentist at Laith Family Dentistry! Schedule your appointment today.
