As your dentist in Putnam, we’ve got a real interest in keeping your smile healthy. Did you know there are a few simple steps you can take to improve the health of your teeth and gums? Keep reading to learn the top five tips for good oral health, and start making some positive changes for your smile today!
#1: Brushing your teeth twice a day (every single day)
For whatever reason, too many adults believe twice a day brushing is optional — but it’s just not. To prevent decay and infection, make sure you’re brushing your teeth for two minutes in the morning and evening, preferably after breakfast and before bed. Focus on each quadrant of your mouth for 30 seconds, and don’t forget to brush your tongue, too. Try setting a timer until you’re used to reaching the two-minute mark.
#2: Floss, floss, floss
Floss! We can’t say it enough. When flossing is a daily habit, oral health greatly improves. It’s not just a post-brushing afterthought — in fact, floss is just as important as the toothbrush. It’s the only way of removing the bacteria and food particles brushing leaves behind. If you’d like to floss but have a hard time remembering, set it somewhere you’re sure to see it every night, like beside the faucet or on top of your toothbrush.
#3: Hydrate with water
Because saliva helps your mouth stay clean by washing away the bacteria and food particles that cause decay, a healthy mouth is also a hydrated mouth. Make sure you’re keeping the bad stuff off your teeth and gums by sipping on H2O throughout the day.
#4: Chew sugar-free gum
You can also keep your mouth well hydrated by chewing on sugar-free gum after meals and in the afternoon. Chewing stimulates the flow of saliva and helps to neutralize the acids and bacteria released by plaque. Toss a pack of sugarless gum in your bag and enjoy fresher breath and healthier teeth all day long.
#5: Practice Prevention
It’s easiest to stop problems before they start, so make sure you’re visiting the dentist twice annually as recommended. These regular visits are crucial for removing the plaque and tartar that cause decay and infection, as well as catching problems cavities and gum disease while they’re easiest to treat. If it’s been more than six months since your last visit to your Putnam dentist, don’t wait to contact the office of Drs. Walter and Carolyn McGinn! Call us to book your appointment today.