Today, your dentist in Homewood, Illinois, has some important reminders for your oral health. While brushing and flossing are the basics, there’s more to ensuring your teeth and gums stay healthy.
At Signature Smile Arts, you can trust the expertise of Dr. Shore and his team, who are committed to helping you maintain excellent oral hygiene. Call us at (708) 799-5353 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Shore, and keep reading for expert tips to keep your smile bright and healthy.
Tip 1: Tooth Brushing Technique
When brushing your teeth, technique matters. Follow these tips to brush your best:
- Brush twice daily, preferably after each meal
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste.
- Place your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle and clean every tooth with circular motions.
- Brushing for at least two minutes ensures you reach all areas of your mouth.
- Avoid aggressive scrubbing, as it can erode enamel and cause gum recession.
Tip 2: Floss Daily
Flossing removes plaque from areas that your toothbrush cannot reach. Flossing also keeps areas under the gumline clean.
Proper flossing involves gently moving the floss between and around each tooth and moving it up and down. Consider using floss picks or a water flosser if you find traditional flossing challenging.
Tip 3: Rinse with Mouthwash
Adding an antibacterial mouthwash to your routine provides an extra layer of protection. Mouthwash helps reduce the bacteria that cause plaque and gum disease, freshens your breath, and can reach areas your toothbrush and floss might miss.
A mouthwash that contains fluoride helps protect against tooth decay. Rinse for 30 seconds after you brush and floss for best results.
Tip 4: Maintain a Healthy Diet
What you eat affects your oral health. Eating plenty of fruit, vegetables, lean proteins, and dairy products helps to strengthen your teeth and gums.
To help prevent tooth decay, limit your intake of sugary and acidic foods. And remember that drinking water throughout the day helps wash away food particles and bacteria.
Tip 5: Protect Your Teeth During Physical Activities
If you play sports, wearing a mouthguard can prevent dental injuries. A custom-fitted mouthguard offers protection against broken teeth, jaw injuries, and cuts to your lips, tongue, or cheeks.
Even if you’re not engaged in contact sports, a mouthguard can be beneficial for activities like cycling or skateboarding.
Tip 6: Avoid Tobacco Products
Tobacco use, whether smoking or chewing, poses significant risks to your oral health. It can lead to gum disease, tooth discoloration, bad breath, and even oral cancer.
Quitting tobacco is one of the best things you can do for your overall health, including your mouth.
Tip 7: Regular Dental Appointments
Regular dental visits are crucial even with a diligent at-home oral care routine. Dr. Shore strongly advises scheduling a dental checkup and cleaning every six months to stay on top of your oral health.
During these visits, we’ll examine your teeth and gums, remove tartar buildup, and address any potential issues before they become serious.
Call Signature Smile Arts Today
Signature Smile Arts offers personalized advice and expert oral care. Call us today at (708) 799-5353 or reach out online to schedule an appointment with Dr. Shore. We’re here to support your journey to a healthy and beautiful smile.
