Oral Hygiene Practices To Maintain A Healthy Smile

We all know brushing and flossing are important for dental health. Why is oral hygiene so important? Many patients tend to neglect their oral hygiene and dental health due to various reasons. But, oral health is vital to maintaining a healthy body.

One of the many benefits of good oral hygiene is that you will have a beautiful smile. However, it goes beyond having a nice smile. What happens in your mouth can directly affect the rest of your body. Bacteria that build up in your mouth can enter your bloodstream through the gums. This bacteria can cause inflammation throughout your body. Therefore, poor oral health can affect your cardiovascular health, diabetes, and even Alzheimer’s disease.

Healthy Oral Hygiene Practices To Maintain A Healthy Smile

• Brushing and Flossing

Brushing and flossing are the cornerstones of any oral health routine. This duo is the most effective way to remove plaque and bacteria from the mouth. Brushing the teeth at least twice a day is recommended while flossing should happen at least once per day.

• Regular Dental Cleanings

Just as brushing and flossing at home are important to maintaining your oral health, so too is visiting your dentist for a professional cleaning. Your dental hygienist can remove plaque and tartar buildup that at-home tools cannot, helping to strengthen your teeth and reduce the risk of decay and gum disease.

Everyone should visit the dentist at least twice a year, but those with complex dental needs may need to visit the dentist more frequently. For example, those who suffer from gum disease may require more frequent cleanings and checkups to minimize the bacteria in the mouth. Regular dental visits can reinforce good oral hygiene habits and screen you for early signs of tooth decay, gum disease, and other complications.

• Quitting Bad Habits (Smoking, Soda, Etc)

Your dentist can tell if you’re a smoker from just the smell alone. However, it’s not only smoking that can cause yellow teeth.

Soda, coffee, red wine, tea, and certain fruit juices can stain your teeth, too. Limiting your intake of these foods and beverages can go a long way in maintaining your bright smile.

• Eating Healthy

What you eat can help or hurt your oral hygiene. When you choose to eat healthy foods, you help the teeth and gums maintain good health. When you eat unhealthy foods, you risk decay and gum disease.

To learn more about our dental care services or to schedule an appointment with us, contact Premier Dental Connections, New Port Richey, FL, by calling us at (727) 376-2299.