How to Properly Take Care of Your Teeth

Your teeth say a lot about who you are as a person, that is why it is extremely important that you take proper care of them. Failing to do so can lead to serious dental diseases like tooth decay and gingivitis. If left unchecked, these diseases can lead to significant damage to your teeth.

Having damaged teeth will negatively affect your self-esteem as you constantly find yourself worrying about what others think about them. People have a tendency to make assumptions about someone from the appearance of the individual's teeth.

People with bright, perfect teeth seem more attractive, more sociable, and more successful. People with badly damaged teeth can seem older, less successful, and less attractive. That is why taking proper care of your teeth is crucial.

Here are a few things you can do that will ensure your teeth stay healthy:

1. Brush twice a day

Brushing is one of the most important things you can do when it comes to your oral hygiene. Food particles become stuck in your teeth when you eat or drink beverages. These food particles contain fermented carbohydrates that convert into acids that eat away at your teeth's enamel. This eventually leads to cavities and other symptoms of tooth decay.

By brushing twice daily, you reduce the amount of time these food particles get to stay on your teeth. That means there are fewer sugars inside your mouth for bacteria to convert into teeth-damaging acids. If possible brush after every meal.

2. Floss daily

Flossing is another important aspect of oral hygiene. Brushing is not enough to remove all the food particles on your teeth, especially between teeth and other tight spaces. Dental floss can reach these places, allowing you to remove food particles that would eventually turn into acids by bacteria in your mouth.

3. Use a mouthwash after brushing

A mouthwash is the third line of defense for your teeth. A good mouthwash can help your remove food particles in spaces that even dental floss cannot reach. It is often best to go with an antibacterial mouthwash since these also kill the bacteria in your mouth that produce acids and cause bad breath.

4. Avoid sugary foods

Sugar is as bad for your teeth as it is for your health. Learn to avoid sugary food items if you want your teeth to remain healthy. Sticky sugary foods are the worst since they stay on your teeth for very long periods. If you must enjoy a sugary treat, try brushing and flossing afterward to clean your teeth.

5. Get professional cleanings twice a year

Your dentist has specialized tools that can help to remove stains and tartar as it builds up on your teeth. That is why it is important to get a professional cleaning done twice a year. During your treatment, your dentist will also examine your mouth for other issues and apply a fluoride treatment to protect your teeth.

Contact Gentle Care Family Dentistry: Marieve Rodriguez DMD for more tips on how to properly take care of your teeth.

For more information on dental health or to schedule an appointment with Gentle Care Family Dentistry: Marieve Rodriguez DMD, request an appointment in our Wilmington dental office here: https://drmarieverodriguez.com. Or call us at (302) 655-5862.

November 2, 2023