Regular visits to the dentist can help you preserve a healthy smile, but did you know dental care is also linked to other health issues? It’s true! Poor oral health can lead to serious medical conditions that affect your heart and lungs.
Between dentist visits, there are steps you can take to protect your tooth health and overall wellness. Read on for dental care tips you can easily fit into your daily routine.
1. Make Tooth Brushing a Habit
Plaque buildup on your teeth can cause tooth decay and gum disease. Regular tooth brushing stops plaque from building up, so it’s necessary to brush your teeth every day. Make brushing part of your morning and nighttime routine, so it becomes a habit.
Experts suggest brushing your teeth for at least two minutes. Use your phone to set a timer or hum the song “Jingle Bells” twice. That’s about two minutes.
2. Flossing is Essential to Dental Care
Flossing between teeth every day does two important things:
- Removes food debris between teeth, reducing bacteria buildup
- Provides oxygen and improves blood flow to your gums – important to reduce the risk of gingivitis and periodontal disease
If you don’t like using floss or dental tape, consider using a water flosser. In some cases, they can be more effective than string-style dental floss.
3. Update Your Toothbrush
If you haven’t purchased a new toothbrush in a while, it’s time. Dentists recommend replacing your toothbrush every three to four months or after you’ve had an illness. This reduces the likelihood of introducing bacteria into your mouth – essential for good oral care.
Some toothbrushes have an indicator that alerts you when it’s time to make a change. Toothbrush subscription services send you a new brush or brush head with toothpaste four times each year.
4. Look for Signs of Tooth Grinding
Many children and adults experience grinding teeth while they sleep. This can lead to chipped teeth or pain in your jaw. Long-term tooth-grinding can cause long-term negative effects on your dental health.
If you have jaw or neck pain, morning headaches, or unusual tooth pain, you should consult the dentists at Dental Avant Garde about getting a mouth guard. This will help you to avoid grinding your teeth.
5. Stop Using Tobacco Products
If you are a smoker or use tobacco products, consider quitting. Tobacco use is a major contributor to poor oral health, linked to major short-term and long-term health issues. Talk to your doctor about smoking cessation programs that can help you kick the habit. Smoking can lead to gum problems, so ensure to book an appointment to rid sensitive gums with the dentist new york.
Giving up tobacco products can be difficult, but it’s one of the essential ways to improve your dental health and your overall wellness.
A Healthy Smile is Worth It
Good dental care not only protects your teeth and enhances your smile, but it can also help prevent other health problems. Take time to brush and floss every day, change out your toothbrush regularly, and adopt healthy habits that protect your oral health.
To learn more about dental hygiene and other health tips, please explore the rest of our site.