As you grow older, do you have to settle for losing your teeth? Your dentist in Scarborough says, “No!” With the proper care, you can enjoy a fully-functional and aesthetically-pleasing smile for years to come. To accomplish this goal, there are 5 tips you need to know about. Read on to learn about these preventive methods!
#1 – Oral Hygiene is Vital
The main nemeses of your oral health are bacteria. These tiny offenders are always present, but when you eat, any leftover particles attract more bacteria and quickly cause them to multiply.
Your primary form of protection is to perform consistent and proper oral hygiene. Here are the two main habits that should be included:
- Brushing – The back-and-forth motion of brushing agitates and removes most of the bacteria and debris that cling to your teeth and can eventually work their way beneath the gums. At a minimum, you should brush two times a day.
- Flossing – To address the remaining particles that can cause tooth decay and gum disease, you’ll need to floss. The flexible material is able to slide into the tight spaces that can’t be cleaned with your toothbrush.
#2 – Step-Up Your Water Intake
The human body is comprised of over 70% water; thus, it’s important to all your bodily functions to drink enough of this miracle liquid to maintain your health. Your dental wellness is no exception.
Therefore, when you drink at least half your weight in ounces of water (ex: 100 ounces for a 200-pound person), your mouth will be better-saturated, which helps to flush debris and bacteria.
#3 – Make Healthier Food Choices
The foods you eat don’t just serve to satiate hunger; they can also factor into your oral health. Thus, maintaining a diet higher in whole foods like legumes, fruits, vegetables and other naturally-occurring options, serves as an excellent alternative to consuming such things as candy, dessert items and snack foods.
Again, it comes down to bacteria. Making better food choices will help to deprive the dreadful microorganisms of the sugars they depend on to flourish.
#4 – Seek Help for Bruxism
Another way to refer to tooth grinding, bruxism can be caused by an improper bite, increased stress or other issues. The result can be enamel damage, which can eventually compromise the entire tooth.
After an examination is performed, your dentist can determine what will be the best route to correct the problem and restore your oral health.
#5 – Maintain Regular Visits
Your dentist is your main ally in the fight for excellent oral health. Therefore, you should make it a priority to visit every six months for preventive care. Here are some of the perks you can look forward to:
- A professional cleaning
- A thorough examination
- An opportunity to learn helpful tips that will boost your oral health and prevent tooth loss
One takeaway is that maintaining your teeth is similar to that of your vehicle. Just as regular oil changes and tune-ups can extend its life, placing the same type of attention into the upkeep of your oral health will yield fantastic results.
To get on the road to maintaining your teeth, contact your emergency dentist in Scarborough to schedule a visit today.
About the Author
Dr. Gus Bal is a graduate of Boston University Goldman School of Dental Medicine. He has since gone on to provide over two decades of top-notch dental care. Voted as “Best Dentist in Scarborough” by the Reader’s Choice Awards, Dr. Bal helps patients maintain healthy teeth at Bal Dental Centre, and he can be reached for more information through his website.
