Not taking care of your oral hygiene can lead to several dental problems, which can cause pain, discomfort, and in some cases, infection. General dentistry in Fairfax offers many services to help maintain good oral hygiene. Here are five ways you can keep your mouth healthy and prevent dental problems down the road.
- Brush Twice a Day
When you brush your teeth several times a day, you are doing one of the most important things you can do for your oral health. Use a toothbrush with soft bristles, and it is often recommended to use toothpaste with fluoride. Use short strokes to brush all surfaces of the teeth, both inside and out, and don’t forget to brush your tongue! This helps remove plaque buildup that can lead to cavities and gum disease.
- Floss Daily
Flossing once a day is just as important as brushing twice a day and is recommended by anyone working in general dentistry in Fairfax. Flossing removes plaque from between teeth and along the gumline where bacteria tend to accumulate. Using floss threaders or water flossers is also an effective way to ensure you get into those hard-to-reach places.
- Visit Your Dentist Regularly
General dentists in Fairfax, such as Cascades Center for Dental Health, recommend visiting the dentist at least twice a year for checkups and cleanings, but more frequent visits may be necessary depending on your needs or if you have any existing dental issues or conditions.
During these visits dentists will examine your mouth, check for any signs of decay or disease, perform any necessary treatments such as fillings or crowns, clean tartar off teeth, polish them up with fluoride treatments, and provide advice on how to improve your at-home oral hygiene routine.
- Avoid Sugary Foods and Drinks
Sugary foods and drinks are terrible for your teeth because they feed bacteria that produce acid that can erode enamel over time, leading to cavities. Try limiting sugary snacks such as candy bars and pastries as well as sodas, sports drinks, energy drinks, fruit juices, etc., which contain high levels of sugar as well as acids that can damage tooth enamel further still.
- Quit Smoking
Smoking not only increases your risk for cancer, but it also makes it harder for gums to heal after being injured by periodontal disease or other irritants like harsh chemicals found in cigarettes or chewing tobacco products.
Quitting smoking has been shown to reduce the risk of developing gum disease significantly, so if you’re a smoker looking for ways to improve your oral health, this is an excellent place to start!
