Good dental hygiene is crucial for maintaining a healthy smile. Not only does it help prevent bad breath and tooth decay, but it can also prevent gum disease and other serious health conditions. That’s why dentists recommend yearly preventive dentistry appointments to promote optimal dental hygiene.
Have you been putting your 2023 dental insurance benefits to use? If not, then it might be time to schedule a check-up and cleaning with Dr. Julie Glud at Dental Care of Lombard. Patients can request appointments with our dentist in Lombard, IL, at (630) 629-5700.
Taking care of your teeth and gums in between check-ups and cleanings is essential. In this blog post, we share five dental hygiene tips for a healthier smile.
Brush Twice a Day
When it comes to good dental hygiene, brushing twice a day is at the top of the list. We recommend using a soft-bristled toothbrush and a fluoride-containing toothpaste to protect and strengthen tooth enamel.
Make sure you are brushing for at least two minutes each time you brush (but be careful not to overbrush!). Be sure to clean all surfaces of your teeth, including the front, back, and chewing surfaces.
Floss Every Day
For great dental hygiene, flossing is just as important as brushing. It helps remove food particles and plaque from hard-to-brush areas, like between your teeth and along the gumline.
The experts at the American Dental Association recommend flossing at least once a day. They further suggest that patients should floss before brushing and use a gliding, C-shaped motion to remove buildup between the teeth.
Use Mouthwash
Mouthwash can help kill bacteria in the mouth and freshen breath, especially if you don’t have immediate access to a toothbrush and toothpaste. Look for a mouthwash that contains fluoride to help protect tooth enamel and prevent cavities.
Limit Acidic and Sugary Foods and Drinks
Acidic and sugary foods and drinks can eat away at tooth enamel and increase the risk of tooth decay. So, limit your intake of acidic and sweet foods and drinks. If you do consume sugary or acidic treats, just be sure to rinse your mouth with water after consuming them.
Plenty of Water Throughout the Day
Drinking plenty of water throughout the day can help wash away food particles and bacteria from your mouth. Washing away food and bacteria is essential for optimal dental hygiene because it helps reduce the risk of tooth decay and gum disease.
Furthermore, staying hydrated helps keep the mouth moist. This is important because dry mouth (also called xerostomia) can cause bad breath, cavities, and several other oral health issues. So, if you want a healthier smile, drink up!
Enhance Your Dental Hygiene with Our Dentist in Lombard, IL
Perhaps the best way to enhance your dental hygiene for a healthier smile is by visiting a Lombard dentist twice a year for routine check-ups and preventive cleanings. If you’re due for preventive care, then contact the team at Dental Care of Lombard today!
Patients can request appointments here, or they may call our Lombard dental office at (630) 629-5700.
