We all want a healthy smile, but are you doing your best to keep that smile healthy? After all, we at Extraordinary Smiles will do our best to treat your dental issues, but most of the work falls in your hands. Do your job well and our job is easy. But how do you know if you are doing the best possible job for your smile? Here is a quick rundown:
Brush properly. Maintaining a healthy smile means brushing, flossing and rinsing on a daily basis. Brush for at least two minutes using a soft-bristled toothbrush twice a day – all four quadrants.
Even your tongue. You may not think this is necessary, but your tongue holds tons of bacteria and can lead to bad breath.
Swish, swish. Using mouthwash will not only improve your breath, but it can also strengthen your teeth, prevent plaque and gum disease. Rinsing fits anywhere in the sequence as mouthwash will dislodge debris in your mouth, making it easier for you to clean your mouth well.
Flossing. Flossing is very similar to mouthwash – it loosens particles in places your toothbrush can’t reach.
Choose your weapon. Picking out a toothbrush may seem daunting with all of the variations available. Choose soft-bristles and a small enough head to reach your back molars, electric or manual is up to you.
Keep it clean. Thoroughly rinsing your toothbrush after each use will help keep bacteria from entering your mouth. Allow it to air dry for optimal cleanliness – no toothbrush covers.
Swap it out. Toothbrushes need to be replaced every three months, or after having a cold.
Midnight snacks. Unless you plan on brushing and flossing after your snack, food before bedtime isn’t a good idea.
Tobacco-free. We all know smoking is bad for your health, but it’s also terrible for your smile. If you use tobacco products, try quitting.
Keep your appointments. Finally, make sure to call us for regular checkups. We are the only ones that can tell you if you’re doing a great job. It’s all about teamwork!
For more information about dental hygiene, call Dr. Sandip Ladani in Schnecksville, PA at 610-799-0600 or visit www.extraordinarysmiles.net.
Dr. Ladani proudly serve patients from Schnecksville and all surrounding areas.