While seeing the dentist is vital for keeping your smile healthy, you also need to be taking care of your smile from home. Otherwise, common, but serious, oral health issue can develop, from tooth decay or gingivitis. Let’s talk about the best ways to practice successful at-home hygiene.
Try Our Quiz on At-Home Hygiene
- True or False: You should brush twice a day.
- True or False: Flossing is essential.
- True or False: You should watch for signs of trouble.
- True or False: Your diet can impact your smile.
Answer Key
- True. You need to brush your teeth when you wake up and again before going to bed. Each session should last no less than two minutes and we urge patients to use toothbrushes with soft bristles as these won’t damage enamel if they brush too hard. When you brush your teeth, you remove food particles, reducing the risk of decay, gingivitis, and teeth stains in the process.
- True. Flossing reaches the food particles trapped between the teeth, which a toothbrush’s bristles cannot. Flossing is essential for avoiding the onset of cavities, gingivitis, and gum disease. You should floss your teeth every night before going to bed, going up and down the side of each tooth and even dipping below the gum line to completely remove trapped bits of food.
- True. When you experience the common warning signs of trouble, see your dentist right away. The doctor can examine your smile and see if you need treatment. Patients with decay or infections often report persistent toothaches and tooth sensitivity. Gingivitis and gum disease often lead to sore, red gums that bleed easily.
- True. When you consume foods high in sugar and other starches, you increase the risk of oral health problems. However, drinking water and adding more fresh fruits and vegetables to your diet is great for your smile, and your waistline!
Do You Have Questions About At-Home Hygiene?
We can provide tips for caring for your smile at home, helping you enjoy optimal oral health. To learn more, schedule an appointment, call Gentle Smiles in Dallas, TX, today at 972-329-7645 (972-329-SMILE).
