While visiting your dentist every six months, or twice per year is highly recommended for keeping your mouth healthy, there are also a few easy things you can do at home as well. Between regular visits to your dentist and an excellent home care routine, you can potentially avoid many costly and invasive dental issues such as cavities and gum disease. Your Hutchinson dentist reveals what you can do to keep your mouth healthy between visits.
Choose an Electric Toothbrush
Did you know that how you brush your teeth is just as important as brushing at least two times per day? One way to improve your brushing technique is to invest in an electric toothbrush. It times your session to ensure that you’re brushing for at least two minutes, while also doing all the work for you. Hygienists report great results and less plaque build up with patients who use an electric brush. It’s a small investment to make in improving your oral health.
Use an Antibacterial Mouth Rinse
Choosing an antibacterial mouth rinse to use in conjunction with your brushing can help to reduce the bacteria and acids in your mouth that cause tooth decay and gum disease. Rinsing your mouth adds extra protection from plaque build up without adding extra time to your nightly routine. Be aware however, that not all rinses are created equal. Your dentist can recommend which one may be right for your needs.
Eat more Fruits and Vegetables
Most of us understand that fruits and veggies are healthy for our bodies, but did you know they’re also good for your oral health? This is because fruits and vegetables actually neutralize the acids that cause tooth decay. They also increase saliva flow, which helps to wash away food debris and other particles.
Avoid Tobacco Products
Smoking or using tobacco products greatly increases your risk for issues such as periodontal disease and oral cancer. It also discolors your teeth, leaving a yellowish, brown stain on your enamel. Quitting smoking benefits your body and your oral health.
Dr. Grant Ringler and Drs. Melissa and Justin Barnhart are your premiere dentists in Hutchinson, and our goal is to be your partners in achieving and maintaining optimum oral health for a lifetime. We believe that prevention is the key to achieving great oral health and overall health, and that’s why we encourage regular dental visits as well as an excellent home care routine.
Give us a call to schedule your next dental appointment.