How to Maintain a Healthier Smile

dental hygiene tips timonium md

The health of teeth and gums are not just dependent on how often they are cleaned. Learn about these dental hygiene tips that can help you maintain a healthy smile:

Brush and Floss Twice a Day

This may seem like the most obvious dental hygiene tip, but it can be the most effective. Brushing and flossing teeth and gums at least twice a day helps fight plaque and tartar. Cleaning between teeth can combat tooth decay. You can also clean teeth after meals to remove bits of food that can get lodged between teeth.

Use Fluoride Products

Using toothpaste and other dental hygiene products that contain fluoride can help fight cavities. In addition, fluoride found in water is safe to drink and effectively combats tooth decay.

Replace Your Toothbrush Regularly

Over time, toothbrush bristles can bend out of shape, meaning they can not clean teeth as effectively. Bacteria can also build up on toothbrushes, so it is important to replace your toothbrush every three months.

Maintain a Healthy Diet

Sugary foods and drinks can cause cavities, especially if teeth and gums are not brushed and flossed properly. Healthy foods not only benefit your physical health but your oral health. Foods high in calcium strengthen bones, teeth included. Fruits and vegetables can also stimulate saliva production to clean your mouth.

Schedule Dental Visits

Dental hygienists can clean areas of the mouth that may be difficult to reach for a deep clean. Visiting the dentist every six months is recommended to ensure that you maintain proper oral health. Scheduling a visit to the orthodontist can fix problems like crooked teeth, which can lead to further oral health problems. For example, crooked teeth can be difficult to clean, and bacteria can build up in the hard to reach areas between teeth. Receiving dental cleanings and orthodontic treatment can help prevent oral health problems down the road.

Schedule an Appointment

If you want to help maintain a healthy smile with teeth whitening, tooth extraction, or orthodontic services, call Izadi Orthodontics in Timonium, MD at (410) 919-9806. You can also schedule an appointment with our professional team online here.