Eyes may be the windows to the soul, but a nice bright smile will give you confidence with family and friends, coworkers, and others you meet for the first time. That’s why it’s so important to make sure you have healthy teeth and gums. Good oral hygiene prevents bad breath, tooth discoloration, and removes plaque and debris from the surfaces of your teeth.
Even though dental health is important, we aren’t always in a position to use a toothbrush during the day or even after meals. That doesn’t mean there aren’t ways you can still practice good dental hygiene. In addition to brushing and flossing your teeth each day and night, you will need to be conscious of what other things you can do throughout the day to keep your teeth and mouth healthy.
Here are some helpful tips.
Use water
Water can help keep your teeth clean as it can rinse away food particles and plaque. If you don’t have access to a toothbrush during the day, swish your mouth with water after your meals. In addition, staying hydrated is important. Proper hydration of your body helps to maintain healthy saliva volumes and quality. Saliva is an important component for keeping your teeth and gums healthy.
Eat veggies
Vegetables are not just good for your body, but they can help with oral hygiene, too. Fibrous, raw vegetables like celery, apples, and carrots can act as a natural means of removing debris from your teeth and gums. Eating these kinds of veggies can help remove food particles and help clean your teeth after a meal. Think of them as your new favorite dessert!
Avoid sugary drinks or snacks
It’s okay to have sugary drinks and snacks occasionally but prolonged exposure to sugar and acids leads to a breakdown of the enamel and will result in tooth decay. According to the American Dental Association, too much sugar in your food and drink will damage tooth enamel and increase the bacteria in your mouth.
If you plan on having carbonated drinks or other sugary snacks or candy over the course of the day, pack a soft bristle toothbrush and toothpaste that you can use to clean your teeth. Better yet, just try to avoid these snacks. Especially the really sticky stuff, as it can remain on your teeth all day long.
Good oral health will give you a confident smile, but also help keep the rest of your body healthy, too. Be sure to schedule regular dental cleanings and checkups. By doing this, you can catch potential problems before they start, which will reduce your risk of developing gum disease or tooth decay. Contact our team at Creekside Dental for more information or schedule your appointment today!
