Chances are you want to keep your natural teeth in your mouth for as long as possible. After all, healthy teeth are an integral part of good oral health, but they’re not invincible. If you don’t take care of your teeth, you can be at increased risk for decay and other serious dental problems. Fortunately, your dentist in McMinnville knows that there are many things you can do to strengthen your teeth and prevent decay.
1. Bedtime Brushing
Thoroughly brushing teeth at bedtime, and ideally, twice a day, can not only help protect against tooth decay and cavities, but it can also help keep teeth strong and healthy. Your dentist in McMinnville will most likely recommend using a soft-bristled toothbrush so that you can get squeaky clean teeth without the worry of damage. Additionally, brushing your teeth at a 45-degree angle can help remove stubborn plaque and bacteria in the gum line. Removing bacteria and plaque is a crucial part of protecting your enamel. If it’s left alone, it will eat away at your teeth, weakening them.
2. Flossing Keeps Decay Away
Even if you have a brushing routine down, it’s still important to floss your teeth regularly. Flossing is great because it helps remove food that’s stuck between teeth and your toothbrush may miss. If food particles are left behind, they can easily cause cavities and eat away at the protective tooth enamel. There are various types of floss available from traditional floss to water flossers and floss picks. Talk with your dentist in McMinnville about the best floss for you.
Everyone should see their dentist at least twice a year for a checkup and professional dental cleanings. These visits help remove any plaque buildup and identify any potential problems early. Plus, your dentist may also recommend an added layer of protection in the form of fluoride treatments.
4. Eat Healthily
Besides practicing good oral hygiene routines, what we eat also plays a role in our dental health. Foods rich in calcium like cheese, yogurt, or leafy greens may strengthen teeth by building up enamel. Calcium-rich foods help ward off cavities since they create a layer of protection between teeth and acids that attack tooth enamel.
5. Take It Easy On The Juice
Some juices can be packed with nutrients like vitamin C. However, most juices also contain high levels of sugar. You can try diluting juice with water to help counteract the sugar content, but it’s best if juice is enjoyed in moderation. Better yet, drink water as often as possible. It’s important for all of us to drink plenty of water throughout the day and it helps neutralize plaque acids that could cause decay.
If it’s been longer than 6-months since your last dental visit, we encourage you to schedule an appointment today. Preventive dental appointments can help keep your teeth and gums healthy and also identify any potential problems early when they’re still easy to treat. If your dentist does see signs of weakening teeth, they’ll be able to offer treatment options to keep you healthy.
