Posted by Dr. Lee on Oct 9 2022, 01:17 AM
Practicing good oral hygiene is imperative for protecting your oral health. It helps eliminate plaque and prevent cavities and gum disease. It not only helps you maintain good oral health but also boosts your overall health. Listed below are the various best practices for maintaining good oral hygiene.
Brushing helps to remove food particles that become stuck between teeth and around the gums. Brush your teeth twice a day using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Fluoride is a mineral that occurs naturally in some foods and water. It can be found in most toothpaste brands and offers a number of benefits. For instance, fluoride strengthens your tooth enamel making it more resistant to acid attacks caused by plaque. It can also reverse early tooth decay and prevent future cavities. You should also floss your teeth at least once a day. Daily flossing removes plaque from areas where your toothbrush can’t reach, such as between your teeth, underneath your gums, and on the chewing surface of your back teeth.
In addition to maintaining proper oral hygiene at home, seeing your dentist every six months is also important to get a thorough cleaning of your teeth and gums. Your dental hygienist will be able to remove hard-to-reach tartar buildup and polish your teeth, which will remove surface stains and help to prevent gum disease. During your visit, we will also check your teeth for signs of damage, such as cracks or decay. If we spot any problem areas, we can treat these issues right away before they lead to bigger problems later on. They may also be able to recommend products that can help you to maintain good oral health between your bi-annual visits.
Smoking or using chewing tobacco can cause a variety of dental health issues, including oral cancer, bad breath, yellow teeth, and more. In fact, smokers are about twice as likely to lose their teeth compared with nonsmokers!
While the occasional cookie won’t harm your smile, eating too many sugary snacks can be worse for your teeth than not brushing at all. This is because sugar feeds the bacteria that cause cavities. If you are unable to brush after a meal, rinse your mouth with water to help wash away food particles and sugar.
If you participate in contacts sports or athletics, ensure to wear a mouthguard. It protects your teeth from concussions in case of collisions or a fall.
To learn more, call us at 503 2334871 or visit our website for more details. We are located at 1415 SE Ankeny St, Portland, OR 97214.
