As a parent, we know you have so much on your plate already. We certainly don’t want to add to it, but we do want to help improve the quality of life for you and your family! Oral hygiene is more than just brushing and flossing; the goal of family dentistry is to make oral hygiene enjoyable and simple so that people of all ages are more willing to take care of their smiles.
Why is this so important to us? Because we know that an unhealthy mouth can cause more health and problems throughout the body. Plus, people who are happy with their smiles are typically much more confident and happier in general.
Check out these five oral hygiene tips so mouth-health becomes a simple priority for your family.
1. Brush and floss properly
How, how long, and how often you brush and floss matters. There are specific techniques that enable us to clean our mouths more effectively so we can avoid issues like cavities and gum disease.
The proper brushing technique involves:
- A soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste
- In a circular motion, scrub the front, back, and chewing surface of each tooth
- Brush your tongue and roof
- Rinse and spit
The entire brushing process should take at least two minutes and should be done two times per day.
Flossing should be done at least once a day, preferably in the evening. Simply take a string of floss or floss pick, run it down one side of a tooth and up the other. Be sure to reach all the way down to the gum line. When the floss gets dirty or frayed, switch it out!
2. Make it fun!
For kids (and many adults) oral hygiene is boring. One of the best ways to make this time enjoyable is to do these things together. Huddle up in the bathroom, put on some good music, and get to brushing! Our expert in family dentistry also recommends these tips:
- Let your little one pick out his toothbrush, paste, and floss
- Play a two-minute video for him to watch while brushing
- Offer a reward for consistently brushing each week
3. Get the proper nutrients
What we put in our mouths is almost as important as brushing and flossing. Sugary foods and carbohydrates often create environments where disease-causing bacteria thrive, however, other foods can significantly improve oral health.
Eat more of these nutrients to improve your oral (and overall!) health:
- Calcium
- Vitamin D
- Potassium
- Phosphorus
- Vitamin K, C, and A
To learn more about how these affect your oral health and what foods contain these vitamins, check out this blog.
4. Quit bad habits
It’s no secret that smoking and chewing tobacco are incredibly bad for teeth and gums. Along with unattractive dental stains, using tobacco products increases a person’s risk of gum disease and oral cancer.
Other bad habits that affect oral health include nail-biting, using teeth as tools, and chewing ice. We encourage patients of all ages to avoid these habits at all costs.
5. Visit the dentist regularly
Regular dental cleaning and exam visits are necessary for children and adults. Most dentists recommend attending these appointments every six months, and in some cases, even more often.
During these appointments, dentists check for signs of cavities, gum disease, and oral cancer, then thoroughly rid the mouth of any tartar or lingering plaque. Regular dental visits are essential to the prevention of more serious oral health problems.
Family Dentistry in Lombard, IL
If you’re searching for a great family dentist in Lombard, IL, look no further! With three children of her own, Dr. Julie Glud understands how overwhelming the dentist’s office can be for patients of all ages. That’s why she offers gentle dental care in a warm environment.
Schedule an initial consultation for your family today by calling (630) 629-5700.
