The Top 15 Dental Care Tips

doctor-at-workOral hygiene is very important. Poor oral hygiene can lead to a number of problems — painful, expensive and embarrassing problems. An individual must try to keep their teeth and gums healthy to avoid painful and costly dental work. Below are the top 15 dental care tips.

Brushing

Brushing may seem like the most obvious way to have good oral hygiene because it is the most important thing one can do to keep one’s teeth and gums healthy. Brushing gets rid of plaque, which if left in the mouth can lead to dental problems. Brushing should be done at least twice a day, and it is even better if it’s done after each meal. Brushing should be done for a full two minutes, paying attention to each tooth. One needs to be careful to not use too much pressure.

Pick the Right Toothbrush

There are many different kinds of toothbrushes, and it is essential that each person chooses one to suit his or her needs. People with braces should get a toothbrush designed for orthodontic care that can clean teeth with braces more effectively. Those with limited dexterity or arthritis may find an electric toothbrush easier to use or one with large handle. For children there are toothbrushes with a timed light to help them brush for the full two minutes that dental professionals recommend. Toothbrushes should be replaced every three months for best results.

Floss Every Day

Flossing should be done every day to remove food particles and plaque from between the teeth. Unfortunately many people forget or skip flossing because they don’t realize its importance.

Avoid Sugary Foods and Beverages

Foods and beverages with a high sugar or starch content make the most acids in the mouth, so anyone wishing to eat a diet that is optimal for healthy teeth should keep sugary and starchy foods to a minimum. Hard candies, lollipops and sugary gum should be avoided since they linger in the mouth, bathing the teeth in sugar. The length of time that teeth are exposed to sugars is important because continuous exposure is worse. Sucking on candy and sipping sugary drinks throughout the day is harmful. Fruits and fruit juices, although natural and healthy, are high in sugar and should be watched.

Have Regular Dental Cleanings and Check-ups

Regular dental check-ups and cleanings are important to keep your teeth and gums healthy. Tooth decay may not start with any obvious pain or symptoms. A dentist can discover problems early, before painful symptoms appear and before more expensive, involved dental work is required. Dental problems, when they occur, can get worse if they are left alone.

Start Thinking About Oral Hygiene Early

Parents should start thinking about the oral health of their children in infanthood. A baby shouldn’t be put to bed with a bottle that contains milk, formula, juice or any sugary liquids. An infant’s gums can be cleaned, even before teeth are showing, by wiping them with a moist cloth.

Sealants

Dental sealants can be useful for giving teeth some protection against decay. Sealants are a thin, protective coating painted onto the top chewing surfaces of teeth, and they are usually applied to the back teeth. Children and teenagers are usually candidates for sealants; however some adults without any decay or fillings in their molars may get sealants.

Selecting a Dentist

Selecting a dentist can be a big decision. When selecting which dentist to visit, one should ask friends and family for recommendations, along with some other considerations. The dental practice should be in a convenient location with suitable hours of operation. Other important factors are whether or not a provider is covered on the patient’s insurance plan the helpfulness of the staff.

Drink Plenty of Water

Drinking water has several benefits. It is thirst quencher that doesn’t have any sugar to harm teeth. It also helps to rinse away particles from the mouth, decreasing the bacteria that could lead to plaque and decay. It is also a good habit to rinse the mouth out with water after eating.

Need for Calcium

Calcium is essential to strong teeth. A diet of foods that are rich in calcium is important. Cheese, yogurt and soybeans all contain plenty of calcium. Vitamin D is also necessary; since it helps the body absorb calcium.

Help Sensitive Teeth

People with sensitive teeth should use a very soft bristle brush and use toothpaste made especially for sensitive teeth. Heat, cold, acidic foods or sweet foods may trigger sensitivity. If something causes a reaction, then it should be avoided.

Treat Dry Mouth

Saliva is important to keeping the mouth healthy. Without enough saliva the mouth becomes dry and oral health problems can develop. Many common medications can cause dry mouth. Dryness can also occur from breathing through the mouth during sleep, which can occur with asthma, sinus problems or other health conditions. If someone is experiencing dry mouth, he or she should consult a doctor to find the best solution.

Quit Smoking

Most experts advise smokers to give up this habit because it can lead to many health problems, including oral health issues. For some people, smoking is not an easy habit to stop. Smokers may consider using toothpaste designed for smokers. They are specially formulated to combat bacteria and stains, which increase in the mouth from smoking.

Consult a Doctor about Acid Reflux Symptoms

Acid reflux or GERD can lead to tooth enamel getting eroded by acid. People experiencing symptoms of acid reflux should consult with their doctor to control the symptoms to prevent further problems.

Protect Teeth

Teeth can be delicate and should be protected from damage. They shouldn’t be used for cracking nuts, ripping things or holding things. People involved in sports or athletic activities that could potentially lead to injury should use a mouth guard to protect teeth. Mouth piercings also put teeth in danger of being chipped or cracked

Most people want to put their best food forward, and one of the most noticeable traits is a person’s smile and their teeth. It’s good to start with good oral hygiene to prevent dental issues and to help teeth last a lifetime.