Keeping Your Teeth Healthy

May being "Save Your Teeth Month", it's important to look at ways you can keep your teeth healthy. Having healthy teeth requires continuous care. Even if you've been told that you have nice teeth, it's important to take the right steps every day to take care of them and prevent problems.

How to keep your teeth healthy

Brush regularly 

Brushing your teeth regularly is an important practice for removing plaque and bacteria, and keeping your teeth clean. You should brush regularly, properly, and not aggressively. Brushing too hard or using a hard-bristled toothbrush can damage tooth enamel and the gums. Brush using small circular motions, taking care to brush the front, back, and top of every tooth. The process should take about 2 to 3 minutes. 

Floss your teeth at least once a day

Plaque usually likes to hide where toothbrush bristles can't reach. This makes flossing at least once a day very important to remove plaque that is hiding between teeth and along the gum line. Flossing helps prevent cavities from forming in between teeth without your knowledge. 

Limit sugary foods 

Sugar usually converts into acid in the mouth, which then erodes your teeth' enamel. This makes it important to avoid foods with high sugar content as much as possible. This acid leads to tooth cavities and causes other negative effects on your gums. It is, therefore, crucial to maintain a balance and be mindful of what you eat and how it can affect your oral health. 

Get regular dental checkups 

Getting regular dental checkups twice a year allows your dentist to check for cavities, gum disease, and any other oral issues. These visits also allow you to have a chance for regular professional oral cleaning. Professional oral cleaning ensures that all plaque and tartar that are left after brushing and flossing are completely removed. 

Avoid smoking

Avoiding smoking and other forms of tobacco is important to keeping healthy teeth and gums. Whether chewing or smoking, tobacco use contributes to an overwhelming number of cases of oral tissue damage. Tobacco not only stains your teeth but also increases the risk for oral cancer. 

Did you know your oral health has a significant impact on your overall health and well-being? When you request an appointment with our dentist, Dr. Vaibhav Bajaj, in Charlotte, NC, you can rest assured that you're in the best hands. Call us at (704) 327-3258 to schedule an appointment or if you have any questions.