4 Best Practices To Have A Healthy Smile

Oral hygiene is one of the essential things when it comes to having a healthy smile. Having a healthy smile not only makes one feel confident but also increases one's overall health. Listed below are some best practices that you can follow in order to have a healthy smile.

• Practice proper oral hygiene

Regularly brushing your pearly whites and flossing is a great way to eliminate food particles, plaque buildup, and other debris from your mouth. This will also help to prevent cavities that are caused by bacteria and tooth decay. By maintaining proper oral hygiene, you'll also be keeping your gums healthy and infection-free.

Toothbrushes should be replaced every three to four months or as soon as the bristles become frayed. If the bristles of the toothbrush begin to come loose, the toothbrush is no longer effective. Soft-bristled toothbrushes can be more effective for patients with sensitive teeth. Flossing is another important aspect of maintaining healthy teeth and gums. Flossing is recommended at least once a day to keep bacteria at bay and prevent periodontal disease. Water flossers are also recommended as an alternative way to clean between tight spots in the mouth that cannot be reached with regular flossing. When it comes to toothpaste, there are many options to choose from depending on a patient's individual needs. Fluoride can help strengthen enamel and fight cavities, while whitening formulas help remove surface stains from teeth. Patients should speak with their dentist about which type of toothpaste they prefer, given their oral health needs.

• See your dentist for regular checkups

On average, most dentists advise their patients to have a checkup every six months. By seeing your dentist regularly, you are ensuring your oral health is in good hands. This routine checkup does more than just clean your teeth and check for cavities – your dental hygienist will also check for signs of oral cancer and other serious health problems. Plus, they'll give you tips and advice to keep your smile healthy at home!

• Avoid tobacco usage

Part of having a healthier smile means avoiding bad habits like smoking or chewing tobacco. Tobacco use is the main cause of gum disease and tooth decay, so it's important to quit as soon as you can. Tobacco products are also harmful to your overall health, which is why quitting is one of the best things you can do for your body as well as your smile. Your dentist can help you come up with strategies to quit smoking and improve your oral hygiene routine.

• Eat a healthy diet

Arranging your diet to allow for plenty of calcium and vitamin C helps to keep your teeth strong and healthy. It's also important to avoid sugary drinks and snacks that can contribute to tooth decay or gum disease. Many foods, such as cheese, milk, broccoli, spinach, and almonds, are high in calcium. Fruits like oranges and some vegetables, like sweet potatoes, are high in vitamin C. Both nutrients help to build and maintain tooth enamel. Water also helps keep your mouth clean by washing away food particles that can cause cavities or gingivitis.

For more dental tips, call (408) 830-0123 for an appointment or visit our office at 1298 Kifer Road Suite #501, Sunnyvale, CA 94086. Our dedicated dentists and staff will gladly take care of you!