Oral Health Tips From a Top Dentist

As a top dentist, we are very experienced in helping our patients to keep their teeth and gums healthy. While we can do so comfortably, we understand that our patients would rather do something else than visit the dentist. Whether it is grabbing lunch with a friend or watching a movie, most activities are more enjoyable than visiting a medical professional. The key, however, for avoiding excessive appointments is to practice preventative care in the first place. As such, we recommend having teeth cleaned twice a year at our local dental office.

Additionally, here are steps you can take at home:

• Chew gum throughout the day. Yes, you read that correctly. As a top dentist, we want you to chew gum! The key is to chew the right type. If you buy a pack of bubble gum, your teeth will be worse off not better. You need to chew sugar-free gum that contains Xylitol. This ingredient is essential because it prevents bacteria from creating acid that will, in turn, attack your teeth. As the acid attacks, your teeth are at a greater risk for getting cavities and if the enamel wears away, they will also become sensitive. With that in mind, Xylitol is essential.
• Drink water. Carry a water bottle with you and drink throughout the day. As a top dentist, we understand how your entire body is connected and working together to either be healthy or unhealthy. Water is essential for keeping your energy levels up, looking youthful and producing saliva. The saliva is what your body uses to naturally wash away any food particles or bacteria. When you don’t have enough of it, you can suffer from dry mouth. This will make your mouth feel like cardboard, increase your risk of cavities and give you bad breath. Simply drinking more water will solve the problem.
• Eat your veggies. Mom was right – veggies are important for your health, including the health of your teeth. Over time, the enamel on the outside of your teeth can wear away and break down. When you eat crunchy veggies, nuts, and lean protein, you can help to remineralize and strengthen your teeth in order to decrease your risk of enamel erosion and tooth sensitivity.
• Brush softly. Switch out your hard toothbrush with a soft one so that you don’t accidentally erode the enamel on your teeth. This can happen fairly easily, and in order to prevent it, you must use a soft toothbrush and brush in a circular pattern without irritating your gums. To further strengthen your teeth, use a fluoride toothpaste. If, however, your teeth are already sensitive you can use a sensitivity paste instead.
• Rinse and floss. After brushing, be sure to follow up by flossing and rinsing your mouth with an antiseptic mouthwash. This will kill any germs that remain after brushing.

As a top dentist, we recommend that you take these steps and more in order to remain in good oral health.