We want to see you and your family for a routine checkup and cleaning every six months, so we can help you maintain good oral health. But you need more than these regular visits to our office, you also need to care for your smile at home! In today’s blog, your Ankeny, IA, dentist talks about how to improve your oral hygiene at home.
Brushing Your Teeth
People of all ages need to brush their teeth daily. Even babies and toddlers needed their parent’s assistance to clean their teeth and prevent cavities! We should brush when we wake up for two minutes, and then do so again before going to bed. Each time, we suggest an age-appropriate toothbrush with soft bristles, so you avoid inadvertent damage to the teeth or gums if you brush too hard. Your toothpaste matters too. We suggest one with fluoride, as this can help strengthen the outer enamel to avoid the onset of cavities. Look for fluoride on the packaging for the American Dental Association (ADA)’s Seal of Acceptance.
Flossing Each Evening
Even more important than brushing is flossing. Brushing can remove stray food and drink particles from the surfaces of the teeth, but flossing can remove them from between the teeth and along the gum line, which the toothbrush’s bristles may not reach properly. You can use floss tape, string, or a pick, and should clean up and down each side of every tooth, and dip beneath the gum line too. We suggest doing so every evening before you brush the second time, so the toothbrush can clear away the particles of food you dislodge.
Cutting Back on Sugar
Sugar and starch are harmful for your smile, as bacteria can break down these particles and create higher levels of oral acidity, coating the teeth in layers of plaque and tartar too. The result is a higher risk of bad breath, teeth stains, cavities, and periodontal issues. We suggest limiting the amount of sugar and starch in your diet, as a healthier diet is good for your teeth and gums! You should also schedule a checkup and cleaning every six months, and we can assess how well you are caring for your smile and offer tips for improvement, so you and your family can continue to enjoy optimal oral health.
If you have any questions about improving your oral hygiene or about better brushing and flossing, then contact our team today to learn more and start your journey to a better smile!
Dental Impressions Wants to Keep Smiles Strong
Our team is ready to help you better care for your smile from home! To schedule your appointment and learn more about oral hygiene improvement, then call Dental Impressions in Ankeny, IA today at (515) 965-0230.
