How Can You Maintain Good Oral Health At Home?

Oral health is incredibly important—not only for the health of your teeth and gums but for your overall health as well. This is because your oral health has a direct impact on your general health and vice versa. That’s why your dentist is so concerned with your oral health. As your dental provider, we want to encourage you to take better care of your teeth and gums.

Here are simple ways to maintain good oral health, such as:

Brushing Your Teeth

You can drastically improve your dental health at home by brushing your teeth twice a day. Brushing removes plaque and bacteria, freshens your breath, and helps prevent cavities. Choose a soft-bristled toothbrush and replace it every three to four months or more often if the bristles are frayed.

Flossing

Flossing is one of the best habits you can form to keep your mouth healthy. It removes plaque from between teeth and along the gum line. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that builds up on teeth. Plaque that stays on teeth will eventually harden into tartar. Flossing can help prevent cavities, gum disease, bad breath, and other dental problems.

Eating Healthy Foods

The food you eat can have a big impact on your dental health. The enamel on your teeth is the hardest substance in your body, but certain foods can soften it. Soft foods, including candy, ice cream, and soda, can all cause permanent surface damage.

Using Mouthwash

After your dental cleaning, your dentist may recommend that you use a mouthwash. This will help to keep your teeth clean and healthy at home. It can also freshen your breath. Keep in mind that mouthwash is not a substitute for brushing and flossing. It should only be used in addition to regular brushing and flossing.

Avoiding Tobacco

Tobacco contains dangerous chemicals that dry out the mouth. These chemicals also stain the teeth, which can lead to cavities. Additionally, tobacco use is linked to gum disease, oral cancer, and other serious medical conditions. When people smoke or chew tobacco, they inhale smoke, which in turn irritates the gums and leads to gum disease.

Regular Dental Visits

The American Dental Association recommends that you schedule a professional cleaning and exam every six months. The dental team will be able to identify risk factors like tooth decay and gum disease early on, which can help you prevent more serious problems later on.

Get in touch with Parklane Family Dental for the best dental treatment and care. Call Dentist in Fort Smith, AR at (479) 782-0080 (Fort Smith, AR), (479) 484-0777 (Fort Smith, AR), or Dentist in Rogers, AR at (479) 273-0004 (Rogers, AR) to book an appointment or visit any of our locations.