Maintaining a healthy smile isn’t just about what happens in the dentist’s chair– it’s what you do between visits that can make all the difference. Keeping your teeth clean and healthy between your regular checkups helps you avoid cavities, gum disease, and other dental issues.
So how do you keep your teeth in top shape? Here are some simple, effective tips that will keep your oral health on track between checkups.
Four Things You Can Do to Keep Your Teeth Healthy
1: Brush and Floss Every Day
Brushing twice a day and flossing at least once daily is the foundation of good oral hygiene. However, you have to remember that technique matters. Hold your toothbrush at a slight angle, and brush back and forth (or in circular motions) for at least two minutes. Make sure you’re brushing all the surfaces of each tooth—inside, outside, and chewing surfaces. And don’t forget to brush along your gum line, because plaque loves to hide there!
Flossing is equally important because it cleans between the teeth, where your toothbrush simply can’t reach. Be gentle when flossing to avoid damaging your gums. Never “snap” the floss toward your gums, ease it gently to prevent bleeding. If you struggle with traditional string floss, you can opt for floss picks or a Waterpik.
2: Eat Foods That Are Good for Your Teeth
What you eat impacts your oral health just as much as how often you brush. To keep your teeth strong and healthy, focus on a balanced diet of fruits, vegetables, proteins, and dairy products. Foods that are high in calcium, like yogurt and cheese, can help strengthen your enamel. Crunchy fruits and vegetables like apples and carrots also act like natural cleaners for your teeth.
You should also avoid bad foods like starchy snacks and sugary drinks, because they cause plaque buildup and tooth decay. If you do indulge in snacks or soft drinks, rinse your mouth or drink some water afterwards. This will minimize the negative effects of sugar on your teeth.
3: Stay Hydrated
Drinking plenty of water is one of the easiest ways to improve your oral health. Water helps rinse away food particles, sugars, and acids that can stay on your teeth throughout the day. It also encourages saliva production, which is your mouth’s natural defense against harmful bacteria.
Having a dry mouth will only lead to more plaque buildup, increasing your risk of cavities and gum disease. If you’re unsure whether you’re staying hydrated, here’s a quick tip: your mouth should feel moist, and you should rarely feel thirsty. Dry lips can be another sign of mild dehydration—whenever you find yourself reaching for your lip balm, remember to drink a glass of water.
4: Upgrade Your Oral Care Routine
If you want to improve your oral health, consider adding a few extra steps to your morning or evening routine. For example, mouthwash can help kill bacteria and freshen your breath, while an electric toothbrush can provide a more thorough cleaning. Fluoride treatments or prescription-strength toothpaste can also help if you’re prone to cavities or have sensitive teeth.
How to Know If Your Teeth Are Healthy
Here are a few signs that your teeth and gums are healthy:
- Your gums are pink and firm
- Your teeth are free of visible plaque and tartar
- You don’t experience any pain or sensitivity when eating or drinking
- Your breath is fresh
If you’re noticing any changes in your gums, teeth, or bite, it’s time to schedule a dental checkup. Changes can include:
- Bleeding gums
- Persistent bad breath
- Tooth sensitivity
Don’t Skip Your Routine Dental Visits
By brushing and flossing regularly and choosing healthy foods, you can keep your teeth and gums in excellent shape. But even if your teeth seem perfectly healthy, regular dental visits are still important. Professional cleanings remove the plaque and tartar that your toothbrush and floss can’t reach. Plus, dental exams allow your dentist to spot potential issues before they become serious.
At Baker Dental, we provide personalized, comprehensive dental care. Whether you’re here for a routine checkup or cosmetic enhancements, contact us today with any questions about your oral hygiene or to schedule your next checkup!
Images used under creative commons license – commercial use (10/09/24). Photo by Kaboompics.com on Pexels.