Keeping your teeth, gums and smile looking and feeling its best requires more than just regular check ups and cleanings at your Ottawa dentist. Of course, that is a key part it (and if you haven’t made an appointment in a while, you can do so here!) but practicing regular maintenance techniques when you’re away from the dentist is also crucial.
Here are some important tips to consider to ensure your dental hygiene is where it should be:
‘Use enough — but not too much — fluoride. The single biggest advance in oral health has been fluoride, which strengthens enamel, making it less likely to decay. Three out of four Americans drink water that is fluoridated. If your water isn’t fluoridated, talk to your dental professional, who may suggest putting a fluoride application on your teeth. Many toothpastes and mouth rinses also contain fluoride. Fluoride should be used sparingly in young children — no more than a pea-sized dab on the toothbrush. Too much can cause white spots on teeth.
Rinse or chew gum after meals. In addition to brushing and flossing, rinsing your mouth with an antibacterial rinse can help prevent decay and gum problems. Chewing sugar-free gum after a meal can also protect by increasing saliva flow, which naturally washes bacteria away and neutralizes acid.
Eat smart. At every age, a healthy diet is essential to healthy teeth and gums. A well-balanced diet of whole foods — including grains, nuts, fruits and vegetables, and dairy products — will provide all the nutrients you need. Some researchers believe that omega-3 fats, the kind found in fish, may also reduce inflammation, thereby lowering risk of gum disease’ (source: webmed.com)
Let Palladium Dental help compliment all of your hygiene efforts!
