What stands between you and a truly healthy smile? While people tend to know what they ought to do in order to stay safe against cavities and gum disease, bad habits and inconsistent routines can make their approach to care less effective. What this means is that they can feel confident in the health of their teeth and gums, only to learn that they have a problem requiring treatment at their next dental exam. Our Ankeny, IA dentist’s office is prepared to do more than just restore your oral health when problems arise. Through effective preventive dental care, and through guidance on your daily routine, our practice can help you avoid the barriers between you and good oral hygiene!
Make Sure You Have Time To Take Care Of Your Smile Each Morning
If you have trouble sleeping, or if you struggle to keep your hand off of your alarm’s snooze button, you may have little time to prepare for the start of your day. People with rushed morning routines may not realize just how often they rush through brushing the teeth, or how frequently they skip this practice completely. They can also become dependent on fast, easy breakfast items that are high in sugar. Give yourself time to brush for at least two minutes when you start your day, and be careful not to expose your teeth to significant amounts of sugar for the sake of convenience!
Be Smart About Snacking
Snacks that are convenient can provide a quick energy boost, but they can also be sticky as well as high in sugar. If you depend on snacks to carry you through work, or if you love to have something to nibble on while running errands, take care to pick healthy options that you pack yourself. Bringing vegetables or almonds to substitute vending machine foods from your break room can help you lower your cavity risk!
Take Care To Floss Each Day
When you floss, you fight the buildup of bacteria and food particles between teeth that cause cavities. You also clear away harmful microbes that can cause problems with your periodontal health. Remember that flossing is recommended because your brush is ineffective at cleaning in those areas where your teeth meet. If you try to trust your brush to completely clean your smile, you can be more likely to need a dental filling, dental crown, or deep cleaning at your next exam!
Your Ankeny, IA Dentist Can Help You Stay Consistent With Smile Care
Our Ankeny, IA dentist’s office is prepared to help patients stay consistent with smart oral hygiene habits! To learn how the right daily behaviors can protect you from potential harm, or to discuss any concerns you have about your dental well-being, please contact Dental Impressions at (515) 965-0230.
