We know that with the right steps at home, you can protect your oral health and safeguard your smile against the impacts of issues like tooth decay and gum disease. Which is why we want to talk to you about better brushing and flossing and other helpful tips. In today’s blog, Dental Impressions in Ankeny, IA, talks about keeping smiles strong with better oral health.
The Factors Behind Cavities and More
What causes tooth decay? Cavities and even issues like gum disease can occur when we stop brushing and flossing properly and consume lots of sugar. These factors create plaque and tartar buildup that irritates the gums and weakens tooth enamel. Lack of professional cleanings could be a factor too. During the summer, we tend to get lax in our oral hygiene routines, and traveling doesn’t help. Kids and adults alike also consume lots of sugar, and being outdoors in the heat can lead to dry mouth, which furthers the risk of cavities and periodontal issues. But with a few simple actions each day, you and your family can significantly lower your risk of tooth decay and gum disease.
Brushing and Flossing
One major way to protect smiles of all ages is with good oral hygiene habits, such as daily brushing and flossing. Everyone in your family needs to start the day by brushing for two minutes with a soft-bristled toothbrush, which can prevent inadvertent damage to the enamel or gums. Fluoride toothpaste is also essential, as fluoride can strengthen enamel to make the onset of cavities less likely. You should repeat this process before you go to bed each evening.
You also need to floss, and should do so every evening before you brush that second time. You can use floss tape or string, or a floss pick or even water flosser, as long as you take time to clean in between each and every tooth, which removes the bits of food left behind that a toothbrush alone cannot reach, lowering the risk of cavities and even periodontal issues too.
Healthier Meals and Snacks
What we eat and drink matters too! When we consume foods and beverages high in sugar and starch, this can feed harmful bacteria and allow issues like cavities and periodontal disease to develop through plaque and tartar buildup. Instead, try to drink plenty of water and enjoy fresh fruits and veggies, as well as low-fat yogurts, sugar-free candies, sugar-free gum, whole grain bread and crackers, and cheeses.
Dental Impressions Wants to Talk About Improving Oral Health
We want to help protect your smile from common issues like tooth decay and gum disease. To schedule an appointment and boost your smile, then call Dental Impressions in Ankeny, IA today at (515) 965-0230.
