Easy Tips To Keep Your Teeth Healthy
It's universally known to brush and floss regularly for a healthy mouth, but turns out there's much more we can do to avoid any oral issues; more specifically, gum disease. And it all starts with solid oral hygiene from the beginning.
Start children early: 1 in 4 young children will show signs of tooth decay before they start school and half of all children between the ages of 12 and 15 have cavities. “Dental care should begin as soon as a child's first tooth appears, usually around 6 months,” Caryn Solie, RDH, president of the American Dental Hygienists' Association says. Teeth can be cleaned by using damp cloth; at about age 2, it's important to let children brush on their own with supervision.
Seal off trouble: Permanent molars come in around age 6. We can protect these molars by placing dental sealants to the chewing surfaces in the back of teeth. This is a mechanism so under the radar that only 1 in 3 children receive these dental sealants.
Use enough, but not too much, fluoride: While it's been a subject of many debates, fluoride is beneficial for optima oral hygiene – within moderation. Just about a pea-sized dab on the toothbrush should be sufficient. Most mouth washes and toothpastes contain fluoride. Too much fluoride can result in white spots on your teeth. Use sparingly!
Brush twice a day and floss daily: A no-brainer, advice your dentists will drill into your head, and probably something people have the tendency to ignore. Remember, along with advice, that toothbrushes should be changed 3 to 4 times a year. People with braces may need to use special toothbrushes and other oral hygiene tools to brush their teeth. Electric toothbrushes might also be beneficial for those who suffer from arthritis and have a difficult time performing those tasks.
Rinse or chew gum after meals: Rinsing your mouth with an antibacterial rinse can help prevent tooth decay and gum problems. Chewing sugar-free gum after a meal can also protect by increasing saliva flow, which naturally washes away bacteria and neutralizes acid.
Block blows to teeth: Most recreational sports played in school require mouth guards, but sports played outside of school like skateboarding or roller blading can pose a huge threat to teeth. Purchasing a mouthguard can quickly solve this issue.
Do not smoke or use smokeless tobacco: Smoking can cause a plethora of diseases. Tobacco stains teeth and significantly increases the risk of gum disease and oral cancer. Consider quitting.
Eat smart: Balanced diets including whole foods like grains, nuts, fruits, and vegetables will provide essential nutrients. Some researchers believe that omega-3 fats (found in fish) may also reduce inflammation, thereby lowering the risk of gum disease.
Avoid sugary foods: When bacteria in the mouth break down simple sugars, they produce acids that can erode tooth enamel, opening the door to tooth decay. Sugary drinks, including sodas and juices, pose a threat to your tooth because you have to sip it, raising aid levels over time. Too much acidity will erode tooth enamel. Candy is a huge culprit; they linger on the teeth's surface.
Make an appointment: Dental check-ups are to be performed every 6 months. A routine exam your dentist removes plaque build-up that you can't brush or floss away. They will also examine for signs of oral cancer, wear and tear from tooth grinding, signs of gum disease
Smiles by Bergen Dental is conveniently located in Midland Park New Jersey, within minutes from Ridgewood, Wyckoff, Glen Rock, Paramus, Ramsey, Allendale, Saddle River, and Ho-Ho-Kos, We welcome new clients of all ages!
If you're interested in having a brighter, whiter smile, contact Smiles by Bergen Dental and make an appointment. Smiles by Bergen Dental is in Bergen County, conveniently located in Midland Park, within minutes from Ridgewood, Wyckoff, Glen Rock, Paramus, Ramsey, Allendale, Saddle River, and Ho-Ho-Kus.
