Why your oral hygiene routine is so important?
Taking good care of your teeth and gums can help keep your whole body in a healthy state and reduce your risk of many serious health problems that can start in the mouth.
Because your oral health is connected to your overall health, unaddressed dental disease are also linked to a heightened risk of complications like heart disease, diabetes and oral cancer.
Poor oral health can have a negative impact on how you eat and speak, as well as how you look and feel.
Going to the dentist, like Reitano Family Dentistry, twice a year is an important part of preventative dental care. During these visits your dentist will examine your teeth and gums, scale and polish your teeth and recommend any treatments and services you may need. You will also be advised on how to care for your oral health at home.
However your oral hygiene doesn’t end after your dental visit. We’ll recommend specific advice for your circumstances and challenges, but we’ll also reiterate the importance of basic steps, such as:
Brush your teeth at least twice a day
You should be brushing for at least two minutes each time, using a fluoride toothpaste, preferably one with the added ingredient Triclosan which has antibacterial properties. A soft bristled brush is best or you could try an electric toothbrush which may make the job easier.
Hold your brush at a 45 degree angle, brushing in small circular motions. Brush along and under the gum line and between the teeth.
Floss every day
Floss at least once a day. Flossing your teeth helps removes trapped food and bacteria that can’t always be removed by brushing. If you find flossing difficult, you might consider trying a floss threader or holder.
Avoid sugary and acidic food and drink
Food and drink that’s high in sugar and acid content is a leading cause of tooth decay. Try to limit your sugar intake. If, however you do eat sugary snacks or consume soft drinks or fruit juices, rinse your mouth with water afterward and chew sugarless gum, as this increases saliva flow which helps to clean your mouth.
Keep in mind that the more you snack between meals – the more likely you are to suffer tooth decay.
Drink plenty of water
Staying hydrated will help to keep your saliva levels high. Rinsing with water after eating and between meals can help to minimize plaque, acid and bacteria build up too.
Stop smoking
Smoking has a significant effect on how healthy your teeth and gums are, increasing your risk of gum disease, dry mouth, bone shrinkage, tooth loss and most alarmingly; oral cancer. It can also cause bad breath and stain your teeth, in which, we can certainly help with teeth whitening!
Call 757.424.0184 to schedule your next appointment with Reitano Family Dentistry.
Whether you live in Virginia Beach, Chesapeake, Suffolk or Norfolk area, we’d love to see you!
