In addition to cleanings and checkups, Art of Dentistry Institute in Irvine CA likes to share useful information to help you stay on top of your dental health. So without further introduction, here are some terrific tooth tips:
- If you have kids and your municipal water supply does not have the recommended level of fluoride, talk to your pediatrician about fluoride supplements. Fluoride strengthens both the teeth you can see and the ones still forming in the jaw.
- Set a timer when you brush to make sure you spend at least two minutes thoroughly cleaning all surfaces. Don’t forget your tongue – it provides a cozy home for bacteria.
- Floss before you brush so that tooth bristles can better reach between teeth.
- If you can’t brush after a meal, chew some sugarless gum with xylitol. Xylitol may curb the growth of bacteria on your teeth to reduce plaque formation.
- Eat carbohydrates with meals instead of alone, as snacks. More saliva is generated while eating a meal and this can lessen the effects of carbs sitting on your teeth.
- An oral fluoride rinse used right before bedtime adds an extra measure of decay deterrence. Fluoride rinses – not traditional mouthwash – work best when swished over teeth for at least thirty seconds after flossing and brushing. After spitting it out, don’t rinse with water. Let the residue protect and strengthen your enamel all night long. This is especially important for kids – just make sure they don’t swallow it.
- If you have diabetes, it is important to understand that unhealthy blood sugar levels can increase your risk of tooth decay and gum disease. We can help you maintain oral health in spite of your condition.
- Beware of the dental risks of chronic dry mouth (aka xerostomia). Continual saliva production is essential for keeping the mouth lubricated, washing the food from tooth surfaces, and neutralizing the acid caused by plaque.
- Decongestants, blood pressure medications, antidepressants, and painkillers are some of the medications that can cause dry mouth.
- Wearing a mouthguard when you participate in sports can prevent tooth injury.
At Art of Dentistry Institute in Irvine CA, we want all our patients to take good care of their teeth. Brush and floss daily, and see us for a checkup every six months. Services include general and restorative dentistry. Patients from Santa Ana, Newport Beach, and Laguna Beach trust us with their dental health. Contact us today!
