Who doesn't like having strong, healthy teeth? However, did you know that having strong, white, and healthy teeth requires a lot of care and attention? Even if your teeth are in good health, you should still take daily precautions in order to maintain them in good condition. It's never too late to start taking charge of your oral health, which is why we're sharing our top 5 tips for healthy teeth and gums.

Brushing: Your First Line of Defense Against Oral Issues

The American Dental Association suggests brushing your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste. Fluoride occurs naturally and has long been recognized for its dental health advantages. Many communities, in fact, have fluoridated their drinking water to help minimize cavities. Brush for 2 minutes to ensure that you have enough time to clean all of your teeth. It's no secret that brushing your teeth at least twice a day is generally recommended. However, many of us still skip brushing our teeth at night. When brushing, use your toothbrush in a gentle, circular motion to remove plaque. Unremoved plaque can lead to the formation of calculus and gingivitis. Use short strokes when brushing and avoid long, aggressive strokes, as they can lead to gum recession. Plaque can also accumulate on your tongue, which leads to foul breath. Therefore, it is important to clean your tongue gently every time you brush your teeth.

Flossing for a Healthy Smile

Plaque likes to lurk in places that toothbrush bristles cannot reach. That's why flossing once a day is so crucial for removing plaque from between teeth and along the gum line. Flossing helps prevent cavities from growing between teeth, saving you from an unpleasant surprise at your next teeth cleaning and dental checkup.

Step Up Your Oral Care Game with Mouthwash

Mouthwash helps eliminate plaque and gingivitis, as well as combat tooth decay and prevent cavities. Mouthwash may significantly enhance your dental health. Fluoride-containing mouthwashes can even help remineralize your teeth. Nothing beats the sensation of rinsing with mouthwash. Gargling with a minty rinse keeps your breath fresh, providing a confidence boost to kickstart your day.

Mindful Consumption of Sugary and Acidic Foods

When you consume or drink sugary foods, whether refined, processed, or in the form of carbohydrates, you are feeding the beast. Bacteria in your mouth break down the foods you consume and especially thrive on sugar, releasing acids that can progressively destroy tooth enamel and cause tooth decay. These acids do the most damage to your teeth within the first 20 minutes after eating, which is known as an "acid attack." As a result, the more sugary foods you consume throughout the day, the more decay-causing acids are exposed to your teeth.

While it is unrealistic to completely eliminate sugar from our diet, moderation is essential. Rinse your mouth with water after eating sugary snacks to wash away residues. Replace snacks with healthier alternatives, such as crunchy fruits, vegetables, and nuts.

Regular Dental checkups and Cleanings

To safeguard your oral health, we suggest that you visit the dentist for a teeth cleaning and checkup every six months. Plaque and tartar can accumulate over time, even with proper brushing and flossing. A professional cleaning removes these deposits, which can aid in the prevention of cavities and gum disease.

If you're in need of dental care or have any questions about maintaining your oral health, consider scheduling an appointment with Glendale Heights Family Dental for expert advice and services.