Taking care of your teeth and gums is an important factor to realizing good overall health. Certain bacterias that contribute to gum disease have been found to cause diabetes, coronary artery disease and high blood pressure. By making good dental habits a part of your everyday routine and learning the correct brushing and flossing techniques, you can maintain a healthy smile.
You should brush at least twice a day. Brushing less often gives food particles and bacteria a chance to cause damage and irritation. Keep in mind that if you brush too often or too vigorously, you can damage your tooth enamel and lose some of your teeth's natural protection. Proper brushing techniques are very important and following your dentist's instructions will help you get the best results.
Flossing after every meal and when brushing helps to remove food particles form areas that your toothbrush can't reach. Your dentist will give you specific instructions on how to best floss and recommend a floss that will work for you. Rinsing well after flossing helps to remove loose particles. If you find yourself in a position where you cannot floss and brush after a meal, take the time to thoroughly rinse to remove as much cavity-causing bacteria, sugars and food as possible.
You should visit a dentist twice a year to undergo a thorough examination, address any problems and to receive an extensive cleaning. These regular visits are a great opportunity for you to discuss any concerns you may have with your Marietta dentist, and they have the chance to catch problems while they are still minor. Only visiting the dentist when you have a serious problem can end up with you having to have painful and expensive procedures that could have been easily taken care of if the problems were caught earlier.
Making sure that you eat properly and drink plenty of fluids is the best way to make sure that your body remains healthy. Avoid starchy and sugary foods. Not only are these bad for your overall health, but they also encourage bacterial growth in your mouth, leading to tooth decay and gum disease.Limit foods and drinks that can stain your teeth, such as coffee, tea and some fruit juices. Avoid hard candies, nuts and other difficult-to-eat foods to avoid damage to teeth and expensive dental work. Your dentist can make diet recommendations that will help to protect your teeth.Proper nutrition, watching what you eat and brushing, flossing and rinsing will help keep you smile white. If you haven't seen your dentist in Marietta recently, make an appointment today.