Everyone looks beautiful when they smile, and we can all benefit from doing it more often. However, many people avoid smiling in public at all costs because they may be feeling self-conscious about their teeth. This could be a result of damaged or decayed teeth and even a few unsightly gaps.
In addition to forcing you to hide your smile, problem teeth can often be a common reason to opt for the emergency dental Mornington Peninsula residents rely on for dental care. Fortunately, if you don’t have dental issues, the right type of preventative dentistry will go a long way toward keeping your teeth in good condition.
The Cornerstone of a Healthy Mouth
Essentially, preventative dentistry is a combination of professional treatments and at-home dental techniques that prevent issues such as gum disease, tooth decay, and tooth loss. This means that the average person may already be doing a considerable amount of preventative dentistry by brushing, flossing, and watching what they eat.
Regular dental visits, professional cleaning, and fluoride treatments are a few of the top preventative measures your dentist can help you with. With this in mind, the question remains: are you doing enough to keep your mouth healthy and your smile bright? Are there additional tips that you can incorporate to improve your oral hygiene? Our dental experts share a few top dental tips that make up the core of preventative dentistry.
1. Cut Back on the Sugar
There are many good reasons to cut back on your daily sugar intake. Not only will it be better for your overall health, but it also keeps your teeth in better condition. It’s no secret that sugar is the number one cause of cavities and decayed teeth.
Avoid this by cutting high quantities of sugar from your family’s meal plans and replacing sugary treats with healthier snacks that are gentler on your teeth. Be sure to rinse your mouth with water every time you indulge in a sugary snack, as this will prevent excess sugar from settling on your teeth and gum line.
Another effective way to minimise the sugar intake in your mouth is to sip your sodas with a straw. This helps to keep the bulk of the liquid and sugar off of your teeth, lessening the impact it may have on your teeth.
2. Amend Your Brushing Routine
The average person brushes their teeth at least once every day. Dentists advise that this should be increased to at least twice a day. Be sure to use a fluoride toothpaste, as this will help to prevent tooth decay.
Once you have finished brushing your teeth, you should spit and not rinse. Rinsing washes the fluoride off your teeth. Spitting your toothpaste out rather than rinsing allows the fluoride to stay on your teeth for longer, creating a protective layer.
3. Consider an Electric Toothbrush
Many people prefer manual toothbrushes because they don’t require charging and they’re also more budget-friendly. However, many dentists recommend switching to an electric toothbrush as these are more effective at removing plaque and residual food particles from your teeth and gums. This reduces the likelihood of gum disease and tooth decay. Remember that electric toothbrushes should also be replaced when their bristles become worn.
4. Invest in Fluoride Treatments
If you’re overly worried about tooth decay or you’re having a hard time ditching your sugary snacks, it may be a good idea to speak to your dentist about fluoride treatments. Fluoride not only makes the teeth more resistant to decay but also makes the surface stronger.
Fluoride treatments can be applied in a foam, gel, or varnish. These treatments usually have a significantly higher fluoride concentration than the over-the-counter mouthwashes or toothpastes. Your dentist will make the best recommendation based on your teeth’s current condition.
5. Address Your Nighttime Grinding
If you suffer from bruxism, also known as grinding your teeth in your sleep, you may find yourself waking up with constant headaches and even jaw pain. You will also end up with worn, fractured, or loose teeth. Speak to your dentist for a nighttime mouth guard to protect your teeth from excessive wear.
6. Have the Occasional Gum
When your dentist tells you to ditch the sugar, you may automatically think that includes your chewing gum as well. However, your dentist would rather advise you to switch your sugary gum for a sugar-free option.
Chewing sugar-free gum increases saliva production, which can help to wash away food and sugar particles between brushing. This is also an effective way to reduce the amount of bacteria that settles on your teeth and gums.
Final Thoughts
Taking care of your teeth and tweaking your current oral routine will go a long way toward keeping your teeth healthy and pain-free. It will also reduce the likelihood of toothaches, mouth abscesses, and other dental issues that may require emergency treatment.
Discuss your current dental routine with your dentist and be sure to ask for recommendations to improve your overall oral health. It’s the most effective way to keep your beautiful smile!
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