Top 7 ways to keep your teeth healthy – McKinney Dentist

How to keep your teeth healthy

If you are trying to keep your teeth healthy and having healthy teeth and gums are a result of good oral habits. Brushing and flossing alone is not enough to maintain a healthy mouth. Proper oral hygiene is needed to keep your teeth free from decay and infection. Below are the top 7 ways to have strong teeth below.

1. Brush properly and regularly – It’s important to properly brush your teeth. Brushing with a lot of force can destroy the tooth’s enamel, which can cause tooth sensitivity and gum erosion. Take your time, moving the toothbrush in gentle, circular motions to remove plaque. Plaque can harden, leading to calculus buildup and gingivitis.Always select the right brush for you. A soft bristle toothbrush is more gentle on the teeth compared with a hard bristle brush. Do not forget to brush after every meal and change your toothbrush every three months.
2. Use a fluoride toothpaste – Most toothpastes contain fluoride, and most people get their fluoride this way. Fluoride toothpaste is effective in preventing tooth decay. The amount of fluoride in toothpaste is usually enough to reduce decay.The scientific conclusion is that fluoride toothpaste and correctly fluoridated water, salt and milk are of great benefit to dental health, help to reduce tooth decay, and causes no harmful side effects to general health.People who are against fluoridation claim they have firm evidence that fluoride added to water is harmful. The scientific analysis has not supported their claims.
3. Floss your teeth daily – We should floss at least once a day, but not everyone knows the right way to do it. Many people who brush regularly neglect to floss. Flossing is not just for getting little pieces of food that is stuck in between your teeth. Flossing stimulates the gums, reduces plaque, and helps lower inflammation in the area.Flossing can be difficult, especially for young children and older adults with arthritis. Rather than give up, look for tools or products that can help you floss your teeth.
4. Use mouthwash – If you incorporate mouthwash into your oral hygiene routine alongside brushing and flossing, mouthwash can kill bacteria in your mouth, strengthen your teeth, and prevent gum disease. Clinical studies have shown that using mouthwash can eliminate bacteria that cause gingivitis, and improve your oral health.Ask your dentist for specific mouthwash recommendations. Certain brands are best for children, and those with sensitive teeth. Prescription mouthwash is also available.
5. Drink water – Rinsing away harmful bacteria and food debris, drinking water fights cavities and gum disease. Drinking water is good for your teeth because it helps keep your mouth clean. Plaque is unable to build up in a clean, hydrated mouth. Acids from plaque, food, and beverages can cause harm to your tooth enamel, but drinking water dilutes acids to help protect your teeth.A glass of water can wash away mouth residue that might cause stains, reduce the bacteria that cause bad breath, and protect your tooth’s enamel.
6. Limit sugary and acidic drinks and foods – Sugar isn’t the only dietary factor that can damage your smile. Foods and beverages that are high in acids wear away the enamel that protects your teeth, a process known as tooth erosion. Acids are what lead to cavities.
7. See your dentist at least twice a year – Visiting your dentist at least twice a year will help you keep your teeth and gums healthy. Regular dentist visits combined with at-home oral care is the best way to ensure excellent oral healthSome dental insurance companies even cover more frequent dental checkups. If this is the case for you, take advantage of it. Doing so is especially helpful if you have a history of dental issues, such as gingivitis or frequent cavities.