Oral hygiene is an important part of your oral health. When you follow these oral hygiene tips from your Santa Monica dentist and you will enjoy a brighter smile and better overall health:
- Watch your intake of processed, sugary foods. Foods with a lot of acid and sugar can help promote tooth decay and can have a negative impact on tooth enamel. Read labels to find out how much sugar and acids a food has – taste alone does not always tell you.
- Brush in the morning and at night. During the nighttime, any food particles in your mouth can decay and bacteria can build up in your mouth. Brushing in the morning ensures that you get a fresh start to your day while brushing at night ensures that you get rid of any food particles that can decay and breed bacteria in your mouth at night. Brush with soft, nylon bristles for at least five minutes. If you need a refresher as to the best way to brush, get your Santa Monica dentist to show you how.
- Floss daily. Flossing once a day can get rid of plaque and food between the teeth – where toothbrushes cannot reach. Flossing also stimulates your gums and keeps them healthy. Wrap waxed or unwaxed floss around two fingers and slip it between the contacts of your teeth. Use the floss in an up and down motion to remove plaque.
- Visit your dentist twice a year. This is essential, since regular cleanings remove plaque and other build-up that regular brushing cannot remove.
- Get enough fluoride. Fluoride in toothpaste and in drinking water has been shown to reduce cavities.
- Eat well. Healthy food, such as low-fat dairy products and fresh fruits and vegetables ensure that your teeth and bones have the nutrients needed to stay strong and healthy.
- Avoid placing foreign objects in your mouth. Foreign objects – including pens and paperclips – may have germs on them that can be transferred to your mouth. These objects can also cause injuries inside your mouth. When chewed on, foreign objects can wear down the enamel on your teeth.
- Know your teeth and gums well enough to note any changes – and get any changes checked out. If you notice any symptoms, have them checked out by a dental professional. Some gum diseases, when left untreated, can cause serious pain and can even endanger your overall health.
Contact West LA Dental today if you want to learn how to care for your gums and teeth. Our dentists have years of experience in dentistry. We can help safeguard the health of your smile.