At Home Oral Health Tips From a Preventive Dentist

Ask any preventive dentist, and they'll tell you that taking proper care of your teeth is the best way to keep them healthy and minimize your trips to the dentist. That will save you lots of money in the long-run since you'll be less likely to need -- sometimes expensive -- cosmetic surgery.

There are two primary causes of damaged teeth. Gum disease and tooth decay. Fortunately, these two things can be kept at bay by practicing good, preventative oral hygiene.

Proper oral health care habits include visiting a dentist at least twice a year. That way, any developing issues can be quickly dealt with before further damage is done.

Even people who do not have teeth can benefit from properly taking care of their mouth. Serious diseases like denture stomatitis and mouth cancer can be detected during regular checkups and this considerably increases the odds of successful treatments.

Here are a few tips from a preventive dentist that you can use to keep your teeth healthy at home:

1. Regular brushing and flossing

It isn't possible to overstate how important brushing and flossing can be for the health of your teeth. Once a day won't cut it, you need to brush at least twice a day. If it's possible, brush after every meal. That's because tiny food particles are trapped between your teeth whenever you eat. These particles are transformed into tartar, which produces acids that can damage your enamel.

2. Use fluoride-rich dental hygiene products 

Make sure the toothpaste and mouthwash you use daily contain fluoride. This substance strengthens your enamel and prevents tooth decay. It is so effective at doing this; many dentists provide fluoride treatments for their patients.

Drinking fluoridated water is also good for your teeth. Most cities treat their water with fluoride.

3. Eat a balanced diet

Eating a balanced diet doesn't just help you keep unwanted fat away; it is great for your teeth, as well. Sugary and starchy foods are the main producers of plaque, which eventually turns into tartar and damages your teeth. You want to make sure you have a good portion of proteins and vegetables mixed in with your meals.

Ensure you are getting a good amount of calcium in your diet, as well. You are more likely to get gum disease and lose bone density in your jaw when your body is calcium deficient.

4. Avoid substances that stain teeth

If you want to keep your teeth pearly white, it is important you stay away from certain habits like smoking. You should also avoid dark colored beverages like coffee, tea, soda, and red wine since these tend to stain your teeth when consumed frequently.

These are just some of the simple things that you can do at home to keep your teeth as healthy as possible. If you are serious about safeguarding your dental health, schedule an appointment with your preventive dentist so that you can learn more about the things you can do to keep your teeth healthy.