Did you grow up being taught to brush your teeth twice a day, but never learn much more about what the smile actually needs in order to stay healthy? Over time, many people find themselves struggling with largely preventable dental problems like cavities and even gum disease, because they have not properly been taught how to care for their teeth. Fortunately, preventive care isn’t complicated. You just need to know what’s actually most necessary to keeping your smile in tip top shape?
1. Brush and Floss Every Single Day!
One simple way to keep your smile healthy is through daily brushing and flossing. When brushing you should do so for at least two minutes, and at least twice a day. Flossing only takes a few minutes to do each day, yet it can help to reduce the likelihood of developing problems like both cavities and gum disease, because it can remove bacteria and food particles from between the teeth.
2. Avoid Sugary Foods Which Can Cause Decay
Another way to help keep your smile healthy is by eating a diet that is high in vitamins and minerals, and low in added sugar. Sugar is what the bacteria feed on, so the more of it you are eating, the more likely you are to develop cavities, gum disease, and other dental issues.
Fresh produce is a great option since it’s high in water content, and generally low in sugar.
3. Visit Your Dentist for Cleanings, Regularly
Finally, no matter how healthy your diet or how diligent your dental routine, it’s still important to see the dentist at least twice a year for key preventive checkups and cleanings. Seeing the dentist at least biannually gives him or her an opportunity to remove any calcified tartar buildup, often before an issue has developed and before restorative dentistry is required.
Preventive Dental Care Is Key
Checkups and cleanings are essential to oral health. You can schedule preventive visit with Flynn Dentistry, by calling Michael E. Flynn, DDS, in West Allis, WI today at 414-541-8250.
