Your oral health informs your overall wellness and contributes to your general peace of mind. When you feel good about your smile, it shows. I notice when you make healthy choices during your dental checkup.
Let’s explore six habits that promote optimal oral health at any age.
#1 Never Skip Checkups and Teeth Cleanings
It’s crucial to visit my Lodi or Elk Grove dental office every six months for checkups and teeth cleanings. The American Dental Association recommends this schedule, which has been shown to reduce the risks of cavities, gum disease, and oral infections.
If you have an oral health condition, I may discuss customizing your prevention schedule.
#2 Always Report Oral Health Issues to My Team ASAP
If you notice a sore that doesn’t heal, sudden tooth sensitivity, or other oral health changes, it’s important to report these issues to my dental team in a timely manner. Sores are typically not cause for concern, and tooth sensitivity can result from brushing too hard or have benign causes. However, it’s always best to let my team know.
#3 Adopt and Implement an Excellent Oral Hygiene Routine Daily
Be sure to brush your teeth twice daily or after meals and floss at least once. If you can floss after all meals, that's all the better!
When you brush and floss, be mindful to clean all tooth surfaces and spend time on your routine. Never rush through brushing and flossing.
#4 Stay Hydrated
Drink plenty of water to keep your mouth hydrated. You can also chew sugarless gum to prompt salivary gland production if the gum is not too sticky.
Remember, a dry mouth exacerbates tooth decay!
#5 Diversify Your Diet
To keep your enamel healthy, eat calcium-rich foods like milk, cheese, and low-fat yogurt. Also, always choose water over acidic fruit juices and sports drinks. Eliminate soda!
I recommend a diet rich in grains and raw veggies. Raw veggies provide the nutrients you need to promote better all-over wellness, and they can help clear plaque from your teeth and gums. Plaque and tartar are known cavity culprits.
Consider fatty fish to get a healthy dose of phosphorus.
For a more complete list of tooth-healthy foods, talk to me or my dental hygienist. We are always happy to help our patients maintain their smile health.
#6 Shake Bad Habits for Your Smile and Overall Wellness
I encourage you to quit tobacco in all forms. It can significantly increase your risk for periodontal disease, and it puts your overall wellness at risk.
Also, never use your teeth as tools to open a package or twist off a cap.
Are You Ready to Schedule a Dental Appointment with Us?
Are you new to the area? Are you looking for a family dentist in Lodi or Elk Grove, CA? My team and I are happy to treat patients of all ages and would be thrilled to welcome you. I am offering a new patient special at the time of this writing. My team and I also work with CareCredit financing and offer an exclusive membership plan for patients without insurance.
To learn more or book an appointment, contact a team member today.