To keep your smile healthy and strong, the American Dental Association recommends brushing and flossing to eliminate harmful bacteria and plaque in the mouth daily. Brushing at least two minutes, twice a day will keep tooth decay and gum disease from gaining a foothold in your smile.
To help you with this, be sure to use the proper tools. A soft bristled toothbrush safely cleans tooth enamel and sensitive gum tissue, and a small-medium toothbrush head is adept at cleaning those hard to reach areas, including the molars where oral debris builds up. Strive to brush twice a day, floss once using a flossing method that works best for you (bedtime is a good time) and rinse with a microbial mouthwash to kill germs for the night.
Wearing a mouth guard (sports guard) will give your teeth, tongue, lips, face, and jaw the protection they deserve as you engage in contact sports or high impact recreational activities. Wearing a mouthguard at night (nightguard) keeps your teeth safe if you tend to grind your teeth while you sleep.
Your diet can support or harm your smile. Teeth and gums thrive on a diet rich in vitamins, minerals, fresh fruit, vegetables, lean protein, dairy, nuts and whole grains. Harmful foods and drinks high in sugar are best avoided or limited.
Be sure to keep all scheduled bi-annual dental visits. Your dentist will make sure all hardened plaque is removed, your teeth polished, and check for tooth decay, gum disease, and oral cancer to spot and treat problems in their early stages.
To schedule your next dental cleaning and checkup with Dr. Timothy Dinkelman in Lincoln, Nebraska, please call 402-477-1177 to speak with a member of our dental team. At Northridge Dental LLC, we look forward to helping you keep your smile healthy and strong all year round!