It’s no secret that taking care of your teeth is essential. But many people don’t realize there’s much more to it than just brushing and flossing daily. To have healthy teeth for a lifetime, you must also ensure you do some vital preparatory steps. Here are the four most important ones.
Observe High Dental Hygiene Standards
This is both a preventative and a reactive measure. You should brush your teeth at least twice daily and floss once daily. It will help to remove plaque and bacteria that can cause tooth decay and gum disease. In addition, if you get a cavity or some other type of dental issue, observing high hygiene standards will help ensure that it doesn’t become infected.
Remember to invest in quality dental hygiene products, as well. A good toothbrush and toothpaste can make a big difference in how effective your at-home dental care routine is. At the same time, avoid too stiff bristles, as they can damage your tooth enamel.
Correct Teeth Misalignment
If your teeth are crooked, it’s essential to get them fixed. Not only does this improve the appearance of your smile, but it also helps to prevent gum disease and tooth decay. Crooked teeth are more challenging to keep clean, so plaque and tartar can build up more quickly. It, in turn, puts you at a higher risk for developing cavities and gum disease.
A dentist may consider Invisalign treatment, which uses clear plastic aligners to gradually shift your teeth into their proper position. During the pre-treatment sessions, your dentist will take x-rays, photos, and impressions to create a tailored treatment plan. The treatment can cost several thousand dollars, but protecting your oral health is often worth it. A good center will break down all the Invisalign costs before starting, so you know what to expect. Generally, what matters is that you get the help you need to have healthy teeth.
See Your Dentist Regularly
It would be best if you visited your dentist for a cleaning and check-up at least once every six months. This is important because your dentist can remove tartar or plaque build-up on your teeth and check for any signs of decay or other problems. If you have a history of dental issues, you may need to go more often.
During such visits, your dentist will also take x-rays of your teeth. This is important because it allows them to detect problems that can’t be seen with the naked eye, such as decay underneath a filling.
Quit Smoking and Use Alcohol in Moderation
Smoking cigarettes is one of the worst things you can do for your teeth. It increases your risk of developing gum disease and increases your risk of developing oral cancer. If you smoke, it’s essential to quit as soon as possible.
Drinking alcohol in moderation is also important for oral health. While a glass of red wine can be good for your teeth (because of the antioxidants), drinking too much alcohol can lead to dehydration. This, in turn, can make your mouth more susceptible to bacteria growth.
Stop Teeth Grinding
Also called bruxism, teeth grinding is a condition where you unconsciously clench your teeth or grind them back and forth. This can happen during the day or at night. It can be caused by stress, misaligned teeth, or an improper bite.
Teeth grinding can damage your tooth enamel and lead to other dental problems, such as TMJ (temporomandibular joint disorder). If you grind your teeth at night, your dentist may recommend wearing a mouth guard. This will help protect your teeth from the damage caused by grinding.
Eat a Healthy Diet
Your diet plays a significant role in maintaining healthy teeth. That’s because the foods you eat can either help or harm your teeth. For instance, sugary and acidic foods can damage tooth enamel, while crunchy fruits and vegetables can help to clean your teeth. In addition, dairy products like cheese can help to neutralize the acids in your mouth.
When looking for the proper meals to include in your diet, aim for those that are low in sugar and high in nutrients. These will help keep your teeth healthy while providing your body with the necessary nourishment.
Don’t Use Your Teeth as Tools
It’s not uncommon for people to use their teeth when opening a package or biting their nails. However, doing so can damage your teeth. It’s best to avoid using them for anything other than chewing food.
The science behind this is that your enamel is quite strong. However, it’s not designed to withstand the force exerted when you use your teeth as tools. Over time, this can lead to cracked or chipped teeth.
Taking care of your teeth requires effort, but it’s worth it. By following the tips above, you can help to ensure that your teeth are healthy and strong. And, as a bonus, you’ll also enjoy a beautiful smile.