How to Maintain a Bright and Healthy Smile
How well a person takes care of their teeth and gums is reflected when they showcase a radiant and healthy-looking smile. At the office of Thomas J. Bower, DMD, we try to educate our Bradford community on the best methods to maintain one’s aesthetic and dental function. To help people present their best self, Dr. Bower has provided the following tips:
Effective at Home Care
What you do in the comfort of your own home to care for your teeth and gums has a big impact on your dental appearance and oral health. You must have an effective oral hygiene routine to keep dental issues from occurring within your dental anatomy.
Brushing and flossing before you go to bed and once again after waking up in the morning removes the debris and plaque accumulate after the day’s meals. This aids in the prevention of oral health complications such as gingivitis, staining, and cavities formed by tooth decay.
It is best practice to rinse with a non-alcoholic mouthwash to eliminate leftover food particles and bacteria. The liquid can reach between the nooks and crannies of your teeth better than a toothbrush may be able to.
Diet Matters
It is popular to hear that eating a lot of sugar expedites the cavity process and is the leading cause of tooth decay. However, it is actually not sugar itself that leads to decay, rather any simple carbs are the reason for bacteria to spread as they feed on the substance and secrete acid that wears out enamel. That is why it is essential to maintain a balanced diet and moderately consume simple carbs such as sugar to ensure the health of your smile. Allowing harmful microbes to spread throughout your dental anatomy or reach the inner structures of a tooth may require complex treatment from a dental professional in the future.
To keep your smile bright and luminous, stay away from particularly dark or acidic foods. These can cause stains on the surface of your enamel, which is difficult to eliminate with at-home dental care like brushing and flossing. If you begin to notice that your teeth do not look as radiant as they did before, you may need to undergo professional whitening treatment.
Dental Appointments to Preserve
Your dentist is your number one ally when it comes to fighting the war against harmful bacteria and dental issues. Attending your biannual check-ups allows your dental professional to examine your dental anatomy for any uprising oral concerns or find the best solutions to some concerns you feel regarding your smile. They can help you improve your aesthetic, maintain your oral health, and preserve teeth. If you notice discoloration beginning on the surface or below your enamel, they point you on the right path to ensure the desired outcome.
If you have any questions or would like to know more about how to keep your smile bright and healthy, contact the office of Thomas J. Bower, DMD. Our Bradford dental team enjoys helping people improve their oral health and aesthetic.