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Our general dentist has a few tips to share that can improve your dental health. Preventing dental issues is easier than getting them fixed, and it costs less money overall. The two most common issues that a general dentist deals with are tooth decay and gum disease. Poor oral hygiene is a major factor for both.

Dental health tips from a general dentist

Here are a few simple things that patients can start doing to improve their dental health.

1. Brush at least twice a day

Dentists recommend brushing twice a day to safeguard dental health. Some say that brushing after every meal is best, but there are conflicting schools of thought on that approach. Many people can not keep up with it, and it does not seem to provide significant benefits over brushing twice a day.

The most important time that a person can brush their teeth is right before going to bed. This keeps bacteria and acids in their mouth to a minimum during the most vulnerable time for teeth, due to the decreased saliva production that occurs during sleep.

2. Floss daily

Brushing is not complete without flossing. The bristles of a toothbrush cannot get into the tight spaces between teeth, but dental floss can. Flossing once a day keeps interdental spaces clean, protecting them against tooth decay.

3. Use mouthwash

Mouthwash helps get rid of whatever brushing and flossing miss. An antibacterial mouthwash can help reduce bacteria in the mouth and re-mineralize teeth if it contains fluoride.

4. Avoid sugar

Nothing damages teeth like sugary foods and beverages. Oral bacteria feast on sugar and tend to cling to teeth for longer than other food items. Consuming sugary products often is guaranteed to lead to tooth decay, especially if consumed all day long. Sugar-rich foods and beverages should be kept to a minimum. Rinse your mouth with water after consuming them.

5. Eat an appropriate diet

Teeth need nutrients like calcium to be healthy, so consume dairy products and green leafy vegetables. Calcium helps strengthen teeth, protecting them against tooth decay.

6. Get regular teeth cleanings

Teeth cleanings remove tartar and plaque from teeth surfaces. Tartar cannot be removed by brushing, and it promotes tooth decay and gum disease. A metal tool known as a scaler is used to get tarter off teeth surfaces during teeth cleanings. These visits also serve as an opportunity for the dentist to examine the patient’s teeth so any developing issues can be addressed.

7. Use appropriate gear

Teeth are the strongest parts of the body, but they are not invincible. Use protective gear like mouth guards and night guards to protect teeth as needed to reduce the odds of them getting damaged by trauma to the face.

Take control of your oral health

Want more tips from our dentist? Give us a call or visit our Denver clinic to set up an appointment.

Request an appointment here: https://www.thedentistindenverco.com or call Gregg L Lage DDS, PC at 303-427-4552 for an appointment in our Denver office.