Richardson Cosmetic Dentistry | Dentist in Richardson, TX
Brushing and flossing each day are necessary to maintain healthy teeth and gums. However, you can do other things that benefit your overall well-being. Please read below for our ten dental health tips.
#1 PRACTICE GOOD ORAL HYGIENE TWICE A DAY
Brushing your teeth with a soft-bristle toothbrush for two minutes twice a day, known as the 2×2 rule, helps remove plaque and bacteria. To avoid damaging the soft tissue, brush with fluoride toothpaste and proper techniques using small circular motions.
#2 FLOSS DAILY
Floss nightly before brushing to remove anything your toothbrush is unable to dislodge. Skipping this vital step will leave small food particles that can eventually decay and cause oral health problems. Flossing causes gums to be extra sensitive, which is natural and will stop once you’ve been flossing for a couple of days.
#3 REPLACE YOUR TOOTHBRUSH REGULARLY
It would be best if you change your toothbrush every 3 to 6 months. Frayed toothbrushes don’t correctly clean the tooth’s surface and can even damage your gum line. Always rinse your toothbrush and store it upright to dry completely.
#4 DENTIST VISITS EVERY SIX MONTHS
Regular six-month dental care visits will allow your dentist in Richardson, TX, to catch issues before they take hold. During this visit, your teeth get a thorough cleaning from a hygienist to remove the buildup of plaque and tartar and shine up your tooth enamel with a buff and polish.
#5 MAINTAIN A HEALTHY DIET
Avoid consuming highly processed foods and drinks. Foods laden with sugars play a massive role in long-term dental health. Including foods high in calcium that can help support strong and healthy teeth, like leafy greens and cruciferous veggies, almonds, yogurt, and cheese.
#6 USE DENTAL PRODUCTS
As you know, preventive dental health, like brushing and flossing, is fundamental. Still, you can take it to the next level by incorporating supplemental aids into your routine. Consider using mouthwash, oral irrigators, interdental, and tongue cleaners. These oral hygiene products can help support good oral health and should be used in addition to regular brushing and flossing.
#7 KEEP HYDRATED THROUGHOUT THE DAY
We highly recommend staying hydrated. Hydration helps maintain healthy saliva flow by moving food particles and preventing them from sticking to your teeth, where bacteria can grow.
#8 DON’T SMOKE
Smoking causes tooth staining and severe health issues like gum disease, leading to tooth loss and oral cancer. The number one thing to do to care for your teeth and overall health is to quit smoking immediately.
#9 DENTAL SEALANTS
Children and teens are great candidates for dental sealants as they often don’t brush as thoroughly as adults. Dental sealants fill in the grooves of your molars and premolars to protect your teeth from cavities.
#10 EXAMINE REGULARLY
While regular checkups with your dentist in Richardson, TX, are an excellent preventive measure, issues can develop between visits. If anything seems unusual while scanning your mouth, share this information with your dentist at your next appointment.
Please Visit your Dentist in Richardson, TX
Richardson Cosmetic Dentistry has many years of experience. We are happy to guide you with dental hygiene tips for excellent oral health and a beautiful smile. Please stop by our dental office today or call to schedule an appointment. Ask us about other dental services, such as teeth whitening and dental implants.
