Regular dental care improves your oral health and prevents problems as minor as bad breath and as major as gum disease. With at-home oral hygiene and routine dental appointments, you can help achieve a healthier, fresher, and brighter smile. We will review some of the best ways to improve and maintain dental health in Fullerton, CA. Knowing the best ways to care for your smile can keep it healthy.
Improving Your Dental Health in Fullerton, CA
There are several tips that we have to help you maintain and improve your teeth and gums:
Brush and Floss Daily
You can brush your teeth twice a day for two minutes each time you brush. When brushing with a manual brush, rotate in circular motions over each tooth, moving from the front of the teeth to the chewing surfaces and back. Remember to brush your tongue, as bacteria can build up there that can contribute to bad breath and decay.
Use the Right Toothbrush
We recommend that patients use a soft-bristled toothbrush, as harder bristles can damage and wear down the tooth enamel. Using toothpaste without abrasive particles can also damage teeth. Be careful when choosing your toothpaste as some whitening toothpaste can contain these particles. You should also replace your toothbrush or brush head every 3 months. Replacing your brush can keep the bristles in shape and prevent bacterial buildup.
Visit the Dentist Regularly
Scheduling dental visits every six months can help prevent dental problems and keep your smile bright and fresh. At regular visits, our hygienists remove bacteria buildup on the teeth and gums. They use stainless steel tools that can provide a deeper clean, preventing problems like decay and gum disease.
We also take dental x-rays to find signs of wear, damage, or decay. X-rays and visual examinations give us a complete view of the mouth and bone structure that keeps the smile healthy.
Minimize Sugar
Harmful bacteria feed on sugars and starches left in the mouth. Consuming less sugar, drinking water, and cleaning your mouth after eating can help prevent bacterial buildup. Over time, plaque and tartar build in the mouth, causing irritation, bleeding, and pain. As bacteria feed on food debris, they create digestive acids that irritate the gum tissue and eat away at the tooth enamel. Be aware of foods high in sugar and even citric acids as they can damage teeth or lead to infection.
Remember Your Vitamins!
Certain vitamins and minerals help strengthen teeth and prevent problems like gum disease. Both calcium and phosphorus are beneficial minerals. Phosphorus helps the body absorb calcium, a mineral that helps keep the enamel intact and healthy. Vitamin A helps prevent dry mouth, gum disease, and other problems caused by bacteria. Additionally, Vitamin C helps keep connective tissues and teeth strong.
Has it been a while since your last dental visit? Call Fullerton Craft Smiles today at (714) 888-7008. You can also request a dental appointment online with Dr. Kush Patel and Dr. Krutav Patel. Let our team know if you have any questions about maintaining your smile and we will be happy to assist you.