At-home Dental Care The Key To Optimal Dental Health
Many people think that because they go to the dentists for an annual cleaning that their teeth are in optimal condition. And while annual cleanings and cavity checks are good, the real key to optimal dental health is routine dental care at home.
Routine dental care at home consists of brushing and flossing the teeth, along with mouthwash, and a fluoride rinse. You should brush your teeth upon waking and before retiring for the night. You can brush a third time after meals. Floss at least once a day.
Pay special attention to your diet and the beverages you consume. Coffee will stain the teeth. The sugars in soda, fruit drinks, cookies, pop-tarts, and candy can cause cavities. Instead opt for water whenever possible, and limit simple sugars in your diet. Whole-grain breads, oatmeal, and plenty of vegetables, and other low-glycemic foods will still provide energy, but without the damage to your teeth. Your moods and energy levels will actually improve if you eat this way!
If you absolutely cannot do without your morning cup of Joe, try drinking your coffee out of a straw. Drinking coffee out of a straw can help prevent splashing on the front of the teeth. This is what dentists recommend to those who are undergoing at-home teeth whitening procedures.
When it comes to choosing a tooth-paste, any brand will do, although some products sold at dental offices are suited for special dental needs such as extreme sensitivity or mineral deficiencies. Talk to your dentist about which tooth-paste is right for you. The same goes with mouth-wash and fluoride rinse.
For tooth brushes, go with what youre most comfortable using. Many people like the electric tooth brushes because they can sometimes clean and polish the tooth a little bit better, and get the job done quicker. Or you can pick up a regular tooth brush for just a few dollars at the grocery store. Be sure to dispose of tooth brushes every few months and after you are sick.
Flossing is probably everyones least-favorite part of at-home dental care. Its the most time consuming, and sometimes, at least for those with sensitive gums, it can be painful. It can be particularly time consuming and irritating for those who have braces or permanent retainers because you have to maneuver the floss around wiring. For those who have braces or dental appliances, waxed floss tends to work the best. The wax on the edge allows the piece of floss to thread straight through the crevices between teeth, without getting stuck.
When you implement a plan for at-home dental care that includes regular brushing, flossing, and rinsing, combined with proper nutrition; your chances of having a cavity are greatly diminished, and your chance of having a beautiful smile increases.
Routine dental care at home consists of brushing and flossing the teeth, along with mouthwash, and a fluoride rinse. You should brush your teeth upon waking and before retiring for the night. You can brush a third time after meals. Floss at least once a day.
Pay special attention to your diet and the beverages you consume. Coffee will stain the teeth. The sugars in soda, fruit drinks, cookies, pop-tarts, and candy can cause cavities. Instead opt for water whenever possible, and limit simple sugars in your diet. Whole-grain breads, oatmeal, and plenty of vegetables, and other low-glycemic foods will still provide energy, but without the damage to your teeth. Your moods and energy levels will actually improve if you eat this way!
If you absolutely cannot do without your morning cup of Joe, try drinking your coffee out of a straw. Drinking coffee out of a straw can help prevent splashing on the front of the teeth. This is what dentists recommend to those who are undergoing at-home teeth whitening procedures.
When it comes to choosing a tooth-paste, any brand will do, although some products sold at dental offices are suited for special dental needs such as extreme sensitivity or mineral deficiencies. Talk to your dentist about which tooth-paste is right for you. The same goes with mouth-wash and fluoride rinse.
For tooth brushes, go with what youre most comfortable using. Many people like the electric tooth brushes because they can sometimes clean and polish the tooth a little bit better, and get the job done quicker. Or you can pick up a regular tooth brush for just a few dollars at the grocery store. Be sure to dispose of tooth brushes every few months and after you are sick.
Flossing is probably everyones least-favorite part of at-home dental care. Its the most time consuming, and sometimes, at least for those with sensitive gums, it can be painful. It can be particularly time consuming and irritating for those who have braces or permanent retainers because you have to maneuver the floss around wiring. For those who have braces or dental appliances, waxed floss tends to work the best. The wax on the edge allows the piece of floss to thread straight through the crevices between teeth, without getting stuck.
When you implement a plan for at-home dental care that includes regular brushing, flossing, and rinsing, combined with proper nutrition; your chances of having a cavity are greatly diminished, and your chance of having a beautiful smile increases.
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