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Your teeth are an important part of your body and keeping them clean helps keep your mouth and your body healthy. By taking care of your teeth, eating a balanced diet, and visiting the dentist regularly, you can have health teeth and an attractive smile throughout your life. When it comes to preventative care, your dentist will diagnose and treat oral issues before they become higher-cost problems - most of which are expensive even under regular dental insurance. To prevent oral health problems such as gum disease, large cavities, and bad breath, it is important to schedule routine dental checkups twice a year. It is also important to practice preventative dental care at home, as well. This means taking care of your teeth and gums by brushing, flossing, and eating a healthy diet. Brush Twice a Day Brushing is one of the most effective methods for removing harmful plaque from your teeth and gums. Removing the debris off your teeth and gums in a timely manner prevents bacteria in the food you eat from turning into harmful, cavity causing acids. Most dentists agree that brushing three times a day is the minimum. If you use fluoride toothpaste in the morning and before bed at night, you can often get away without using toothpaste during the middle of the day. A simple brushing with plain water or rinsing your mouth with water for 30 seconds after lunch will generally do the job. Since everyone's teeth are different, it is important to visit your West Orange and Livingston dentist first before choosing a brushing technique. Some common and popular brushing techniques include:
* Use a circular motion to brush only two or three teeth at a time, gradually covering the entire mouth.
* Place your toothbrush next to your teeth at a 45-degree angle and gently brush in a circular motion, not up and down.
* Don't forget the other surfaces of your mouth that are covered in bacteria - gums, the roof and floor of your mouth, and most importantly, your tongue.
* Remember to replace your toothbrush when the bristles begin to spread because a worn toothbrush will not properly clean your teeth.
* Effective brushing typically takes about three minutes. Floss Every Night Flossing is an important method used for removing bacteria and other debris that cannot be reached by a toothbrush. It generally entails a thin piece of synthetic cord that is inserted and moved up and down between the sides of two adjoining teeth. Many dentists believe that flossing is the single most important weapon against plaque. Daily flossing is an excellent and proven method for complementing your brushing routine and helping to prevent cavities, periodontal disease, and other dental problems later in life. Be sure to floss at least once a day - typically in the evening. Like brushing, flossing should take about three minutes and can easily be done while doing another activity, such as watching television. Eat a Well-Balanced Diet Good nutrition and a well-balanced diet are one of the best defenses for your oral health. By providing your body with the right amounts of vitamins and minerals, it can help your teeth and gums - as well as your immune system - stay strong and ward off infection, decay and disease. Harmful acids and bacteria in your mouth are left behind from eating foods that are high in sugar and carbohydrates. These include carbonated beverages, some kinds of fruit juices, and many kinds of starch foods like pasta, bread and cereal. Contact your West Orange and Livingston dentist today for more information on proper nutrition, brushing and flossing for increased preventative care. Maintaining proper preventative care at home, in addition to regular dental checkups, you can help maintain the health of your smile.
Dr. Ivan Stein, New Jersey top dentist, offers an array of dental services, including implants, headache treatment and bonding in Livingston and West Orange. From TMJ treatment and sports dentistry to veneers and custom-made snoring appliances in Livingston and West Orange, this Top New Jersey Dentist delivers professional, smile-enhancing dental care.
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