Dental Health - Do's and Don'ts

Dental Health - Do's and Don'ts

Just like with most things, never take advantage of your dental health and beautiful smile. It's important to maintain good and consistent dental hygiene. To do this, you must make a couple short and simple sacrifices, as well as be willing to commit time to your dental health each and every day.

The first and possibly most important step is to brush your teeth twice a day. If possible, try to work towards brushing them after each and every meal. Be sure to find toothpaste that contains fluoride, as fluoride helps maintain your tooth structure, and protects your teeth from current and potential decay.

Also, make sure you use a soft-bristled toothbrush, which gently protects your gums without being too hard on them. Contrary to how most people brush, it is important to brush up-and-down, not back-and forth. Always brush for about two minutes, never too harshly. Also, don't forget to brush your tongue! Brushing your tongue scrapes off leftover food particles, and improves the smell of your mouth.

Be sure to replace your toothbrush every three to four months, or once your brush bristles become dull- whichever comes first.

While it's an important tool, a toothbrush can't possibly reach every nook and cranny in your mouth. Plenty of gunk can build up between your teeth, as well as envelope under your gums, thus causing plaque to build up. It can also lead to gingivitis or halitosis of the mouth- not to mention painful cavities. You don't have to floss as often as you brush, once a day is more than adequate.

When you do, be gentle, and ease the floss between each and every tooth. Wrap the floss around both your index fingers, and pull it back and forth so as to scrape the base of your teeth. Floss holders are available, as are disposable "plackers" which work best for tight teeth. If you find that your gums bleed, don't be concerned. So long as you keep flossing consistently, your gums with toughen up, and stop bleeding when flossed.

There are several times when you should contact your dentist. If your gums bleed, and don't seem to be recovering, go ahead and let your doctor know. Extreme hot and cold sensation could indicate a problem as well. Also, changes in your tooth structure or quick crowding of your teeth are both things that a doctor should know.

It's important to see your dentist one to two times each year. A regular appointment entails a basic cleaning, and checkup. So long as you keep your appointments regular, there will rarely if ever be a problem with your dental health. Never fear a dentist- remember, they're here to keep you healthy

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