4 Oral Hygiene Tips for a Healthy Smile

Maintaining the right oral hygiene does not have to be complicated. Having the right tools and knowing the proper way to brush the teeth can go a long way. The right diet can help prevent plaque from forming. Read on to discover how to keep your smile healthy.
Eat the right foods
Most people know that a diet high in sugar and refined carbohydrates is not the healthiest. An individual’s diet also has an impact on the smile. Foods that are high in sugar can cause sugars to remain in the mouth. This can cause bacteria and plaque to form on the teeth. On the other hand, there are some foods that are good for the teeth.
For example, foods that are high in fiber, such as celery, can help remove food from between the teeth. It can also help the saliva neutralize the acids that can cause plaque. Foods that are high in calcium, such as milk and cheese, are also good for the teeth.
Use the right tools
Individuals should use a toothbrush with soft bristles. Traditional toothbrushes can do a good job of cleaning the teeth if used properly. However, some individuals may find that an electric toothbrush keeps the teeth cleaner. For example, individuals with arthritis may find that an electric toothbrush is easier to use. The toothbrush should be replaced as soon as the bristles begin to look frayed.
While a toothbrush and dental floss are the basic tools for a healthy smile, there are many other oral hygiene tools that can make the job easier. For example, individuals with orthodontic appliances such as braces or fixed retainers may find that floss threaders can help get the floss under the appliance. A tongue scraper can help remove the bacteria that causes bad breath from the tongue.
Use the right technique
It is important to brush the teeth twice a day – once when individuals wake up and once before bed. However, even if individuals brush their teeth the recommended twice a day, using the wrong technique can do more harm than good. Pressing too hard can cause the enamel or gumline to gradually erode. According to the American Dental Association, the right way to brush the teeth is with short, gentle strokes.
Get preventative care
Even with the right oral hygiene, plaque and bacteria can still accumulate in the mouth and between the teeth. This can lead to many health problems, including strokes and heart attacks. The dentist can clean the teeth and assess the patient’s overall oral health. A dentist can also examine the mouth for signs of cavities and other oral health problems.
Oral hygiene is important
Taking care of your smile involves eating the right foods and using the right tools. Having a proper technique will ensure you can clean all of your teeth. Visiting your dentist often can help keep your teeth clean and cavity-free. Following these steps will help you keep your smile healthy.
Request an appointment here: https://totalcareimplantdentistry.com or call Total Care Dentistry & Implants at (760) 394-3088 for an appointment in our Palm Desert office.
Check out what others are saying about our services on Yelp: Read our Yelp reviews.
Recent Posts
Tooth extraction can apply to an impacted tooth. This tooth can cause pain and other dental problems. Your dentist may suggest the removal of this tooth after a thorough assessment. Here are the details to consider if your impacted tooth needs extraction.The main goal of dentists is to keep teeth intact. They will only remove…
A general dentist will try and save natural teeth when possible. However, in certain circumstances, tooth extraction is either the only option or the most appropriate one for preserving oral health. The following are some key examples of situations where a dentist might recommend a tooth extraction.Sometimes, a tooth is too damaged or decayed to…
Considering implant supported dentures? This hybrid tooth replacement option is one that has grown in popularity over the years. It offers individuals with an entire arch of missing teeth a replacement option that provides stability, good aesthetics and an overall healthy jaw. These benefits make implant supported dentures an option to highly consider. Keep reading…
Tooth extraction is a common dental procedure that general dentists perform on a regular basis. Although it is a routine and safe method, there are common misconceptions about it that cause unnecessary anxiety and fear. It is normal to feel a little nervous before any medical procedure, but it is equally important not to let…