When we take proper care of our smiles from home, we limit the risk of tooth decay, gingivitis, and gum disease. Avoiding these issues reduces the chances of dental infections and adult tooth loss. In today’s blog, we’re talking to our Richfield, MN, patients about maintaining good oral hygiene.
Tips for Better Oral Hygiene
- Brush for Two Minutes Each Time: Each time you brush your teeth, in the morning and again at night, you need to clean your teeth for two minutes. You should reach every available surface of your teeth, which removes food particles and helps you maintain a healthier smile. We also suggest using a toothbrush with soft bristles to minimize damage to the enamel if you happen to brush too hard.
- Never Forget to Floss: Even more vital than brushing is flossing, which removes the bits of food trapped between the teeth that a toothbrush’s bristles cannot reach. When you floss, you reduce the risk of gingivitis and gum disease, safeguarding your smile against a myriad of uncomfortable symptoms and complications.
- Have Your Teeth Cleaned: Every six months, you should see us for a cleaning. A cleaning allows us to remove all plaque buildup from the surface of the teeth. Plaque accumulates when bacteria break down food particles, the buildup eventually inflames gum tissue and weakens tooth enamel. A cleaning helps protect your smile from tooth decay and gum problems.
- Cut Back on Sugary Foods and Drinks: When we consume foods and beverages high in sugar, we leave particles behind on our teeth for bacteria to break down. Soon, the risk of the decay increases. Instead, try drinking more water and enjoying healthier snacks, such as fresh fruit, veggies, nuts, and dairy products.
- Don’t Ignore Potential Warning Signs: If you notice your teeth ache or feels sensitive, or if your gums bleed, feel sore, or look red, then see us right away. These are often indicators of developing oral health concerns that require immediate treatment.
Do You Want a Healthier Smile?
Our team offers patients general and preventive care to help safeguard their smiles. To learn more, schedule a consultation with Dr. Keller by calling Cedar West Family Dentistry in Richfield, MN, today at (612) 861-7188.
