Did you know that one in four Americans over 65 have no teeth? That being said, a healthy smile can be an impressive asset! Your teeth vary in shape and size depending on where they are in your mouth. These differences allow them to do many different jobs. They help us talk, pronounce different sounds clearly and give our faces their shape! Because they are so important, it makes sense to give your teeth the best care possible. For most of us, thorough daily oral hygiene lays the foundation for a healthy smile. Just a simple routine of brushing and flossing, in addition to regular dental checkups, can be enough in most cases to help prevent tooth decay, gum disease, and bad breath.
Follow these tips to hold onto your smile!
Floss, then brush.
We have heard this our whole lives, but not many of us do it. If you floss before brushing, you remove food that is trapped in tight spots – which are major “bacteria growth” zones. Place your brush at a slight angle toward the gums when brushing along the gum line. Use a gentle touch—it doesn’t take much pressure to remove the plaque from your teeth, and a vigorous scrubbing could irritate your gums. Concentrate on cleaning all the surfaces of the teeth. To help prevent tooth decay, use a fluoride-containing toothpaste.
Good eating habits.
Many people think that having a high level of sugar in your diet is the most common reason for tooth decay. This is not true – it is how often you have sugar in your diet, not the amount. It takes up to an hour for your mouth to cancel out the acid caused by eating and drinking sugar. Give your teeth a cleanse by munching on crunchy vegetables or fruits at the end of a meal, this serves as a type of mini tooth-brushing session. The hard flesh acts as a cleanser and the chewing motion stimulates saliva production. Replace your afternoon soda with tea – tea leaves contain the tooth protector fluoride. Studies show that green tea drinkers have a lower incidence of advanced gum disease. As an added bonus, researchers believe that the catechin in green tea is more effective than mints at combating bad breath.
Take your vitamins.
Vitamin C, Calcium, Vitamin D and Omega-3 are vital for maintaining and repairing gum tissue. Everything from tooth sensitivity to receding gums can often be attributed to Vitamin C deficiency. Calcium is crucial for strong teeth and healthy bones. Vitamin D helps maximize calcium absorption. Omega-3 or fish oil supplements can help gum tissue heal.
Watch your medicine intake.
Medicine, both prescription and over-the-counter, can often cause decreased saliva production. This is dangerous because saliva serves as a protective barrier against gum and tooth decay. When on medicine, be sure to take frequent sips of water or chew sugar-free gum to help relieve dry mouth. If this doesn’t do the trick, consult your dentist!
Regular dental check-ups.
Only a dentist can truly assess the health of your gums. It is important to keep up with cleanings and regular six-month checkups. Gum disease is a serious infection that can lead to tooth loss and compromised health if left untreated. These are some of the warning signs that should prompt you to see a dentist:
- Tender, swollen or red gums
- Bleeding while brushing or flossing
- Gums pulling away from the teeth, which will make your teeth appear longer
- Loose or separating teeth
- Mouth sores or other pain
- Persistent bad breath
- A change in the way your teeth fit together when you bite
Everyone needs dental care. Schedule your check up today!
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