Improper care of your teeth is linked to maladies such as gingivitis, halitosis, and even deadly infections. Like most people, you’ve probably learned since childhood that brushing and flossing must be performed multiple times daily. Despite this, so many people struggle with cavities, gum disease, and weakened enamel. Fortunately, there is much you can do to promote a bright, healthy smile.
Choose the correct toothbrush. There are different toothbrushes for children and adults, and it is important to choose the correct type. Also, be sure that the bristles aren’t too hard. If the brush has an ADA seal on the box, it has been tested to ensure that the bristles won’t damage your gums.
Brush teeth gently. While it may seem like the best way to keep teeth clean is by brushing hard, it isn’t true. Brushing too hard or with bristles that are too hard can cause pain, irritation, gum recession, and eventually loose teeth. To prevent this, use a brush with soft nylon bristles and use gentle, circular brushing motions when brushing.
Avoid soda as much as possible if you want to preserve your teeth’s health. Soda not only contains a lot of sugar, but also contains acids, which can eat through the enamel on your teeth. Thus, if you drink these carbonated beverages, you are more likely to have cavities.
Receding gum lines is known cause a host of illnesses. Brushing and flossing is important to your gum health. Everyone should floss and brush their teeth in the morning and at bedtime as well as between meals to help prevent gum disease. Use good brushing and flossing techniques to help prevent future illness.
Invest in a good antibacterial rinse. Use is after you brush your teeth. If your teeth or gums are too sensitive, ask your dentist about alternatives such as Sensodyne or fluoride rinses. You should know that using an antibacterial product remains the best way to slow down gum disease and tooth decay.
Strengthen your existing enamel with the foods that you eat. Certain vitamins and the mineral calcium, in particular, all help out with this. Foods that are good to accomplish this with include nuts, meats and dairy choices. Avoid sugary foods, soft drinks and sweetened teas, as these will do immediate damage to your enamel.
A toothache has been said to be right up there, if not worse than labor pains. For this reason, it is important to address a toothache at the very first sign of pain. Don’t assume that the pain will just pass. Get it checked out to make sure there is not something more serious going on like an abscess, which can turn serious rather quickly.
If you are deathly afraid of spending time in the dentist’s chair, you might be tempted to skip cleanings or procedures altogether. This is a bad idea, especially since poor oral hygiene can lead to gum disease or even diabetes. Consider sedation dentistry, in which the patient is not awake during the appointment. Furthermore, some dentists will prescribe sedatives prior to the appointment. If you use either option, you must have someone who can drive you to and from the appointment.
Make your dentist, orthodontist, and periodontist proud by taking your oral hygiene regimen to the next level. Although it is undeniably empowering to have an attractive smile, you must remember that dental health goes beyond cosmetic matters. With the insights from this article, you can work toward healthier teeth and gums.…