San Francisco and Marin CA
We’re all more health-conscious nowadays. Did you know that keeping your oral health in tip-top condition is vital to your overall health and quality of life? It’s important to keep up with the state of your dental health to ensure there are no serious issues that arise due to poor oral hygiene. By knowing the best practices to take care of your mouth and teeth, you’ll protect them and make them stronger.
Take care of your teeth, and your smile will stay healthy and beautiful for years to come. At Glen Park Dental, we want everyone to enjoy the benefits of good oral health. That’s why we compiled this list of five practices to follow on a regular basis to protect and preserve oral wellness.
Brush multiple times a day
Good oral hygiene begins with ensuring you brush your teeth regularly–at least twice a day. Brushing thoroughly, including your gums and other supporting tooth structures, will help rid you of harmful bacteria that can break down the enamel on your teeth. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and be sure not to brush too hard, as this can damage your teeth. Ensuring you brush every day will also remove any food particles or other sticky substances that can cause tooth decay.
Floss and use mouthwash
Most people know you’re supposed to use floss and mouthwash, but not as many people actually use these tools often enough. One study by the Centers for Disease Control found that one-third of responding American adults never floss. It’s not necessary to floss and use mouthwash after each meal, but doing this at least once a day can help you significantly in protecting your teeth. Floss and mouthwash can help you get to the areas of your mouth that your toothbrush cannot reach: all around your gums, between teeth and on the back side of your molars.
Use a toothpaste and/or mouthwash that includes fluoride
Fluoride is your best partner in strengthening your enamel. It helps to support the minerals found in enamel and fights against bacteria that attacks it. The American Dental Association recommends use of a toothpaste or mouthwash that contains fluoride. Just look for any product that carries the ADA seal of approval on the package. Glen Park Dental also offers standalone fluoride treatments to further protect your smile.
Avoid harmful food or drinks
Many cases of tooth decay stem largely from a combination of poor oral hygiene and an unhealthy diet that contains too many foods high in sugar and carbohydrates. These sugars and carbs provide cavity-causing fuel to the bacteria in your mouth, so limiting your intake is recommended. You also need to limit your consumption of highly acidic foods and drinks: Coffee, citrus fruits and tomato-based products are some of the things that can weaken your tooth enamel. Our team of oral health professionals can provide nutrition advice during your next cleaning appointment in San Francisco.
Visit the dentist regularly
Seeing your dentist every six months is crucial to properly caring for your teeth and gums. It’s recommended to visit your dentist twice per year. These check-ups include a dental cleaning that removes all the cavity-causing plaque and tartar from your teeth. Your dentist also will examine your teeth and mouth, identifying any potential problems–sometimes before you even are aware they exist.
General dentistry in the Bay Area of California
Is it time for you to see your dentist for a regular checkup? Glen Park Dental is here to serve you in the Marin and San Francisco areas in California. Visit us online or call us at (415) 585-1500 to schedule an appointment today.
