Dental Care Tips: 10 Ways To Take Care Of Your Teeth

Good dental hygiene is about more than having a sparkling smile; it's about protecting your overall health and well-being, ensuring teeth stay strong for years to come. Give your oral health the care and attention it deserves with help from these ten dental care tips!

1. Brush Twice Daily

Brushing teeth at least twice a day is one of the best ways to protect oral health and well-being. If you're not already in the habit of brushing every morning and night, start now! Doing so helps remove food remnants and bacteria from your mouth and the surface of your teeth. A common mistake? Brushing with too much pressure. A soft-bristled toothbrush and gentle pressure will do the trick, plus they'll help protect your gums.

2. Use a 2-Minute Timer

Brushing twice daily won't protect your dental health if each session lasts only a few seconds. Dentists recommend brushing for two minutes, so use a timer to ensure you're giving your mouth the TLC it needs. Many people find it helpful to think of their mouth in four quadrants: top left, top right, bottom left, and bottom right. Brush each quadrant for a full 30 seconds before moving on to the next.

3. Use Fluoride Toothpaste

Fluoride is a powerful ally in your quest for optimal oral health. Look for toothpaste that includes fluoride so you can get a helping hand when it comes to cavity and tooth decay protection. But be sure you don't overdo it! A pea-sized amount of toothpaste is all you need to keep those pearly whites healthy and happy.

4. Don't Immediately Rinse With Water

You've brushed for the recommended time with your fluoride toothpaste. Great! But when you immediately rinse your mouth with water, you wash away all that helpful fluoride. Therefore, simply spit out any excess toothpaste when you're done brushing so you're not washing away beneficial active ingredients.

5. Floss Daily

Brushing keeps tooth surfaces clean, but bristles can only do so much; they can't properly clean between the teeth or along the gumline on their own. That's where flossing comes in. Flossing daily as part of your dental routine helps remove food particles and dental plaque, providing another layer of protection from cavities and gum disease. Be sure to floss before you brush for better fluoride retention between the teeth!

6. Take Proper Precautions

If you play sports or participate in strenuous activities that pose a potential dental injury risk, be sure to take the necessary precautions. A custom-fitted mouthguard can protect your teeth from trauma and may even prevent serious injuries like a broken or knocked-out tooth. If you grind your teeth while sleeping, you'll also want to look into getting a custom mouthguard.

7. Eat a Balanced Diet

Diet plays a significant role in health, including dental health. Limit acidic and sugary foods, as they contribute to discoloration, enamel erosion, and tooth decay. Stick to a balanced diet of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins as much as possible.

8. Drink Plenty of Water

Water helps rinse away food particles after eating, so be sure you're staying hydrated throughout the day, especially after meals. By keeping bacteria levels in check, you reduce the risk of cavities and gum disease.

9. Use Teeth for Chewing Food – Nothing Else!

Stubborn bag that won't open? Bottle cap twisted too tight? Using those chompers to get the job done is tempting, but resist the urge! If you use your teeth for anything besides chewing food, your chances of sustaining an injury increase significantly.

10. Visit the Dentist Regularly

Regular dental check-ups are essential for healthy teeth. You should be seeing your dentist at least twice a year for preventative care, like professional cleanings and exams. By doing so, you help identify potential issues early on before they become painful or costly problems.

Visit AlignBar Orthodontics for Comprehensive Care

The best approach to dental health is a holistic one, and that's exactly what you'll get here at AlignBar Orthodontics. From clear aligners, whitening, and preventative care to numerous financing options and a range of accepted insurance providers, we have you covered. Protect your dental health by booking an appointment today!