Posted by Edward D. Dallam, DDS Apr 03, 2023
Good oral health is key to our overall well-being. Our mouth is the gateway to the body, and an unhealthy mouth can lead to various health issues. Poor oral hygiene can lead to tooth decay, cavities, gum disease, and tooth loss. Here are ways to maintain good oral health at home:
You should brush your teeth at least twice a day at a minimum. For the best results, you should brush after each meal. However, brushing too often can damage your gums and cause them to recede. You should also wait two hours after eating before you brush because brushing too soon after a meal can harm your enamel.
In addition, don’t brush too hard or too fast, as this can damage your teeth and gums. Use gentle circular motions to polish the surface of your teeth. Remember to replace your toothbrush at least once every three months. A worn-out toothbrush won’t do a good job of cleaning your teeth. If your bristles are frayed, the toothbrush will also be less effective at removing plaque and debris from the surface of your teeth.
Most people only floss their teeth when they notice food particles in between their teeth. However, flossing once every day can help effectively remove these food particles before they have a chance to decay or irritate your gum tissues. It is important to consider the fact that plaque buildup can occur between your teeth even when you cannot see the plaque, leading to gum disease and other issues that can be prevented by brushing and flossing regularly.
When you go to the dentist’s office, they examine your teeth for any damage or decay and may also take x-rays to spot any cavities that may not have yet caused symptoms. Your dentist may recommend treatments such as restorations or fillings to fill in areas of tooth decay. In addition, the dentist can perform preventative cleanings and checkups to protect your oral health.
You should also consume a healthy diet and avoid sugary drinks and snacks to prevent excessive plaque buildup on the teeth. The foods that you eat and drink can have a major impact on the health of your teeth. For example, some foods and drinks can cause tooth sensitivity, while others can increase the risk of cavities.
When you eat a balanced diet full of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains, dairy, and calcium-rich foods, you are putting the right nutrients into your body to promote healthy teeth and gums. The same goes for your oral hygiene routine. By using products that help remove bacteria from the mouth, you are helping to maintain gum health and prevent gum disease.
To find out more about the dental services offered at our dental practice, call (913)-649-0310 or schedule an online consultation. You can also visit us at 5000 W. 95th Street, Suite 300, Prairie Village, KS 66207.