Easy Tips To Keep Your Teeth Healthy
It's universally known to brush and floss regularly for a healthy mouth, but turns out there's much more we can do to avoid any oral issues; more specifically, gum disease. And it all starts with solid oral hygiene from the beginning.
Start children early: Begin brushing when the first tooth appears and arrange a dental visit by the first birthday. An adult should brush or help until the child can clean thoroughly; most two-year-olds cannot do this independently.
Seal off trouble: Sealants can help protect the chewing surfaces of susceptible molars. A dentist can assess the need for sealants and check them at later visits.
Use the right amount of fluoride toothpaste: For children under 3, use a smear about the size of a grain of rice; from ages 3–6, use a pea-sized amount with supervision. Encourage spitting rather than swallowing. Fluoride rinses are not routinely recommended for children under 6 unless advised by a clinician.
Brush twice a day and floss daily: A no-brainer, advice your dentists will drill into your head, and probably something people have the tendency to ignore. Remember, along with advice, that toothbrushes should be changed 3 to 4 times a year. People with braces may need to use special toothbrushes and other oral hygiene tools to brush their teeth. Electric toothbrushes might also be beneficial for those who suffer from arthritis and have a difficult time performing those tasks.
Rinse or chew sugar-free gum after meals: Water helps rinse away food, and sugar-free gum can stimulate saliva when it is safe to chew. These habits do not replace brushing or interdental cleaning. A dentist can advise whether a fluoride or other therapeutic rinse would be useful.
Block blows to teeth: Most recreational sports played in school require mouth guards, but sports played outside of school like skateboarding or roller blading can pose a huge threat to teeth. Purchasing a mouthguard can quickly solve this issue.
Do not smoke or use smokeless tobacco: Smoking can cause a plethora of diseases. Tobacco stains teeth and significantly increases the risk of gum disease and oral cancer. Consider quitting..
Eat smart: Balanced diets including whole foods like grains, nuts, fruits, and vegetables will provide essential nutrients. Some researchers believe that omega-3 fats (found in fish) may also reduce inflammation, thereby lowering the risk of gum disease.
Avoid sugary foods: When bacteria in the mouth break down simple sugars, they produce acids that can erode tooth enamel, opening the door to tooth decay. Sugary drinks, including sodas and juices, pose a threat to your tooth because you have to sip it, raising acid levels over time. Too much acidity will erode tooth enamel. Candy is a huge culprit; they linger on the teeth's surface.
Make an appointment: Your dentist will recommend checkup and cleaning intervals based on your oral health and risk. Professional care can remove hardened tartar and identify decay, gum disease, tooth wear, and suspicious oral changes.
Smiles by Bergen Dental is conveniently located in Midland Park New Jersey, within minutes from Ridgewood, Wyckoff, Glen Rock, Paramus, Ramsey, Allendale, Saddle River, and Ho-Ho-Kus. We welcome new clients of all ages!
If you're interested in having a brighter, whiter smile, contact Smiles by Bergen Dental and make an appointment. Smiles by Bergen Dental is in Bergen County, conveniently located in Midland Park, within minutes from Ridgewood, Wyckoff, Glen Rock, Paramus, Ramsey, Allendale, Saddle River, and Ho-Ho-Kus.