Dentists want patients to keep up with their oral hygiene routines year-round, as it’s the most effective way to minimize the chances of decay, cavities, and gum disease. However, during National Dental Hygiene Month this October, oral healthcare professionals are emphasizing the importance of maintaining a healthier smile by providing helpful tips to make the daily process easier and more successful. If you want to give your teeth and gums a chance at a longer life, consider adding these three recommended steps to your routine.
Tip #1: Make Sure to Use Fluoride Toothpaste
Fluoride is “nature’s cavity fighter,” so making sure it is in your toothpaste is one of the most important ways to safeguard your pearly whites.
Used by dentists for decades, its ability to protect against harmful decay while also strengthening and remineralizing tooth enamel makes it a preferred choice by oral healthcare professionals when treating smiles of all types and ages.
There are countless toothpaste brands on the market, many of which include fluoride as one of the main ingredients. If you need help to choose which one might be right for your smile, though, don’t hesitate to ask your dentist.
Tip #2: Drink More Water
You may find it hard to make the switch from soda to water, but if you want your teeth to remain healthy year after year, you’ll cut back on the number of sugary drinks you have each day.
Soda, tea, red wine, fruit juice, and other similar beverages contain high amounts of sugar and acid – two components that make it easy for bacteria to spread and create cavities. By swapping out two of these drinks each day for water, you’ll begin to notice a difference in how your body and mouth feel.
Not only will you be more hydrated and energized, but your teeth will receive greater protection because of the water’s ability to stimulate salivary glands. This increase in production helps to neutralize harmful acids while flushing away any food particles and bacteria that will try to adhere to tooth enamel.
Tip #3: Brush for Two Full Minutes
Many patients assume that running their toothbrush across their teeth for 20 or 30 seconds is enough to achieve a good cleaning. Unfortunately, this is untrue.
Dentists recommend that you brush your teeth for two full minutes. Why? Because this allows each quadrant to receive the complete attention it needs to eliminate harmful bacteria. By brushing the surfaces thoroughly and cleaning well around the gumline, you can feel confident knowing your smile is healthier every morning and night.
If you need help to make sure you’re brushing for two minutes, use a stopwatch or switch to an electric toothbrush – many have a timer included.
By integrating these three tips into your oral hygiene routine, you’ll discover that your smile feels and looks better than before. You’ll also be more likely to get a positive report during your next dental visit!
About the Author
Dr. Ryan Shaffer earned his dental degree from the University of Nebraska Medical Center in 2002. After completing his studies, he practiced for three years in Norfolk before moving to Lincoln in 2005. His ability to work closely with patients to develop beneficial treatment plans that lead to life-changing results is why he enjoys being a dentist. Whether it’s sharing helpful ways to boost a person’s oral hygiene routine at home or addressing tooth loss with dental implants, he is here to provide the highest level of care. Visit our website or call (402) 423-1616 if you need help to take better care of your smile between appointments.