While regular visits to the dentist’s office for routine cleanings are important for dental health, taking care of your teeth and gums each day is paramount to keeping your mouth healthy. Here are some brushing-and-beyond tips to help prevent oral health problems down the road.
Preventative care is imperative. Basic hygiene practices can help maintain the health of your mouth. Remember to:
* Regularly brush with toothpaste, floss and visit your dentist. Brush at least twice a day.
* Purchase a brush with soft bristles and make sure to use light pressure while brushing so you don’t wear away tooth enamel. A great option is a battery-powered toothbrush like the ARM & HAMMER(r) Spinbrush(r) ProClean(r).
* Pay attention to your toothbrush. Does it need to be replaced? A good rule is to purchase a new toothbrush every three to four months.
* Speak with your dentist about best brushing and flossing practices, as well as the recommended number of visits to the dentist’s office each year. The number of necessary visits may vary depending on specific patient needs.
Preventing enamel loss. Consuming too many acidic foods or soft drinks, and a long list of other factors, can weaken enamel. Enamel loss can lead to cavities, tooth sensitivity, discoloration and other oral health problems. To help maintain your tooth enamel, try to avoid drinks such as soda and fruit juices, and foods such as those high in citric acid or sugar content whenever possible.
You can also look to products such as ARM & HAMMER(r) Complete Care(tm) Enamel Strengthening Toothpaste, which is specially formulated with Fluoride and Liquid Calcium(r) to help rebuild enamel. In addition, the baking soda within the toothpaste will help neutralize acids left behind by food and liquid.
When to call the dentist. Between dental visits, patients may experience symptoms of oral health problems. Make sure you call a doctor if you notice:
* Tooth pain
* Tooth decay or cavities
* Receding gum lines
* Bleeding of the gums
* Increased tooth sensitivity
* Discoloration of teeth
* Lumps on the lip or in the mouth or throat
To learn more about how to protect your teeth, visit www.myoralcare.com.
