Now that you’re spending a lot more time at home, and can’t see your Houston, TX, dentist for regular checkup and cleaning appointments, how do you keep your teeth and gums healthy and strong? In today’s blog, we’re going to look at how daily care, including proper brushing and flossing, is essential for lowering the risks of issues like cavities or gum disease.
Floss Every Single Night:
Did you know that flossing helps reduce your risk of both cavities and gum disease? When you floss, you remove the bits of food trapped between your teeth. You should floss up and down each side of every tooth, dipping below the gum line when you do. We suggest doing so every night before going to bed, and we recommend this for people of all ages, from toddlers to adults!
Use the Right Toothpaste When You Brush:
Choosing a toothbrush that works for you is important, but you also need to be particular about your toothpaste. Be sure to grab one that not only contains fluoride, which helps strengthen outer tooth enamel, but look at the packaging to ensure it also contains the American Dental Association’s (ADA) Seal of Acceptance. Beware though: Many whitening toothpastes contain abrasive agents that could inadvertently damage enamel!
Don’t Ignore Sudden Toothaches:
We’re still offering emergency treatment for patients in need, and that includes more than just cracked or chipped teeth. If you have persistent pain in your tooth, this could point to an advanced cavity or even an infection. Lack of treatment could mean a missing tooth! If you have an ache that won’t subside, then be sure to let us know and schedule a visit for emergency solutions.
Enjoy Healthier Snacks:
When we eat items high in sugar and starch, this leaves behind particles for bacteria to break down, a process that leads to plaque buildup and a higher risk of cavities and gum disease. Healthier options include fruits, veggies, yogurts, cheeses, nuts, whole grain crackers, and water.
Beware Some “Healthy” Options:
Some healthy choices could still contain harmful levels of sugars and should be enjoyed in moderation, such as fruit juices and dried fruits! If you have any questions about protecting your smile from home, of it you think you may have an emergency issue that needs immediate attention, then please contact our team today.
DO YOU HAVE QUESTIONS ABOUT GOOD HOMECARE TECHNIQUES?
We want to make sure you know what actions help protect smiles of all ages from common problems such as tooth decay. To learn more about better homecare, schedule an appointment by calling MMC Dental in Houston, TX, today at (713) 926-8896.