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Good dental hygiene is essential for a healthy smile. If you do not take care of your teeth, it can lead to tooth decay, cavities, gum disease, and tooth loss. Good oral health also helps prevent more serious conditions such as heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. Here are the best practices for healthy teeth and smiles.

Brush and floss your teeth

Teeth should be brushed at least twice daily, ideally for two minutes each time. In addition to brushing twice a day, you should floss once per day. Flossing removes plaque and food particles that your toothbrush can't reach. Using an antiseptic mouthwash can help reduce the bacteria in your mouth as well. Mouthwashes rinse away debris and leave a fresh, clean feeling on your tongue and in your throat.

Use a mouthwash

Your dentist may also recommend a mouthwash to help reduce plaque buildup or bacteria in the mouth. These rinses can be especially helpful for people who smoke or have poor oral health habits. Consult with your dentist to learn more about your options.

Eat a healthy diet

One of the most important things you can do to keep your smile healthy is to avoid foods and drinks that are high in sugar or acid. These substances cause tooth decay. Consuming too much alcohol can also stain your teeth. Certain foods and drinks increase your risk of tooth decay, including soda, fruit juices, sweet snacks, and candy. Avoiding these is integral to preventing cavities and plaque buildup on your teeth.

Tooth discoloration affects your appearance and can make you self-conscious about your smile. All of these factors can lead to an unhealthy smile and should be avoided if possible.

Visit your dentist for regular checkups

Dental appointments every six months are important for maintaining good dental health and preventing serious oral health conditions. During these regular visits, your teeth and gums will be thoroughly examined to detect any signs of decay or disease. If issues are detected, you will be referred to a specialist for treatment right away. Your dental checkups also involve teeth cleanings that help eliminate plaque and bacteria from the mouth that regular brushing and flossing can't remove. This helps prevent gum disease - gingivitis, and periodontitis. 

Stop smoking and tobacco usage

It's always a good idea to avoid behaviors known to increase your risk for tooth decay, such as smoking or using tobacco products. Smoking increases the risk of oral cancer.

By maintaining healthy oral hygiene habits, you can keep your teeth and gums healthy and strong for years to come. Contact our office to schedule a checkup and cleaning today!

Reach out to our dental practice in Mission Viejo, CA, to have a consultation with our dentist, Dr. Lee. Please call us at (949) 380-0315 or schedule an online consultation, and we'll guide you further.