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Do you wish you had a brighter, whiter smile? Do you have bad breath and wish to get rid of that embarrassing odor? Who doesn't! This fall you can take some easy steps to a healthier smile with these dental health must-haves as part of your daily oral hygiene routine. It is no surprise that a bright, white smile can make you look and feel younger and more attractive. According to the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, as many as 96 percent of those surveyed, believe that an attractive smile makes a person more appealing. Step 1: Brush and Floss Regularly Brushing is an essential of dental hygiene. By brushing your teeth twice a day, it helps to remove food particles that bacteria feed on, cleans teeth, and freshens breath. Toothpaste with fluoride helps to strengthen teeth, but you must brush for at least two minutes to allow it to properly do its work. Many electric toothbrushes have built-in two minute timers, which make brushing for the full amount of time easier. Flossing helps to remove bacteria from in between your teeth that your toothbrush can often miss as it does not always reach, which helps prevent gum disease. It is recommended that you floss twice a day, but if you only do it once daily it is important to floss before bedtime as food particles that are left in your teeth can worsen bacteria as it sits in your mouth. When you sleep, you produce less saliva, which leaves your teeth and gums particularly vulnerable to bacteria. Step 2: Visit Your Dentist It is extremely important to visit your dentist at least twice a year for thorough dental cleanings. Your dentist can spot early signs of gum disease, which is easily treated when caught in the beginning stages. If you are prone to gum disease and cavities, consider visiting your dentist more frequently. Similarly, if you have other health conditions that put you at a higher risk for dental problems, such as diabetes, ask your dentist how often you should have an exam. A special dental-hygiene regimen should be considered for pregnant women, people with diabetes, and anyone undergoing chemotherapy treatment or using medications that can affect the gums or dry out the mouth. It is wise to examine your own mouth regularly for signs of trouble, such as a nonhealing sore on the lip or inside of your cheek, swollen gums, or sensitive or bleeding gums. If you notice any of these conditions, make an extra dental appointment to have them checked out. Step 3: Eat a Healthy Diet A healthy diet can directly relate to your smile. It is important to include plenty of dairy and other calcium-rich foods in your diet as it helps to maintain strong bones and teeth. Vitamin C that is found in citrus fruits can also help boost gum health as well. Equally important to what you eat is what you don't. Sugary and sticky foods that can stick to the crevices of your teeth are particularly bad, as bacteria feed off the sugars and release acids that cause cavities. If you do eat candy or other sweets, try to brush immediately afterward or, if that's not possible, rinse your mouth with water. Your dentist in South Elgin is a partner in your dental health. It is important for you to do your part at home to keep periodontal disease at bay as well. Taking care of your teeth at home can help maintain your dental health and prevent periodontal, or gum disease, from developing.
Brar Dentistry is owned and operated by Dr. Rick Brar, South Elgin dentist. Working alongside Dr. Brar are Drs. Thomas Adams, and Russel Verbic. Together they bring quality dental health care to patients of all ages including root canals, orthodontics, dental implants, and sleep apnea in South Elgin.
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