Healthy Dental Habits to Follow

Patients often ask their dentists about the best habits for keeping a healthy mouth and smile. Fortunately, maintaining your oral health is not necessarily hard or expensive. It just takes a bit of attention and a solid oral hygiene routine.

First of all, brushing and flossing are among the most important steps that patients can take to protect their oral health and prevent the need for extensive or invasive treatments at the dental office. Brush twice a day, for at least two minutes at a time. Using an electric toothbrush with a built-in timer can be highly effective at reducing plaque and tartar.

Daily flossing is also recommended, and many patients find that they prefer to floss before they brush to dislodge any particles from between the teeth. These habits will help to limit the presence of oral bacteria that can cause various diseases.

Of course, another important habit is keeping your semiannual visits to your DFW dental office. Even the most dedicated brushers and flossers still need to follow up with dental professionals every six months or so for a thorough examination and cleaning. Yearly x-rays also help dentists to pinpoint problems that may be developing in a site in the mouth that is obscured from view.

These routine check-ups help your dentist keep tabs on any changes in your oral health, and it’s easiest to treat dental conditions when they are in their earliest stages.

You should also be aware of the signs and symptoms of various oral health issues, like decay or gum disease. Be on the lookout for issues like red, bleeding or swollen gums. Contact the dentist at the first sign of a toothache in case it indicated a serious problem like a large cavity or an abscess.

Some people only pay close attention to their diet when they’re trying to shed pounds, but nutrition plays an important role in dental health, too. Steer clear of sugary snacks and make sure to get as many nutrients as possible from the food you eat for strong, healthy teeth.

If you play sports, take steps to protect your teeth from injury. Wear a custom-fitted mouthguard while participating in any contact sports.

At your next dental visit, ask the dentist if you need to add any positive oral health habits to your routine.