You should care about your teeth! Oral care is part of your overall health care, and it’s an essential piece of the puzzle to keep you happy and healthy. Your smile is part of that!
Time for your biannual dental visit in Wauwastosa? Visit Mayfair Family Dentistry today at 414-519-6724 for an appointment! While we recommend a visit twice a year to make sure your teeth are in good condition, your oral health starts at home. Here are five ways to keep your smile in excellent shape!
You should be brushing your teeth twice a day. Aim for a full two minutes in the morning and at night. This will ensure you give adequate attention to every tooth in your mouth.
Make sure that your toothbrush is the right size. The hardness of the bristles should also be a factor — you don’t want to agitate your gums!
Using a pea-sized amount of toothpaste, sweep your toothbrush over the front of your teeth. You may find this easier to do in small sections. Once you’ve brushed through the front side of your teeth, move to the back side of your teeth. As a final step, make sure you’ve thoroughly brushed all your chewing surfaces or any pockets in your mouth. This is an excellent setup for flossing!
We know flossing may not be your favorite activity in the world. But, flossing regularly — at least once a day — is the first line of defense against plaque.
After you’ve chosen your floss, relax your mouth. Run your floss down the line between every tooth. Try not to snap your floss between your teeth. Gently guide it down to your gum line and up to the highest point of contact in your mouth.
Your preference might be waxed, flavored, or biodegradable — whatever works best for you and your habits is the right choice!
There are a ton of mouthwashes out there. By choosing one that’s ADA approved and antiseptic, you’ll be on the right track. If you don’t like the typical “burn” that’s commonly associated with mouthwash, choose one that’s alcohol free.
Mouthwashes and rinses are excellent ways to fight bad bacteria in your mouth, and using one in combination with your regular brushing and flossing routine will only help your teeth.
We all have our vices. You may be an avid coffee drinker. You might be a regular smoker. But these practices can greatly impact the health of our teeth.
Try to limit or cut back entirely on cigarettes or other tobacco products. It’s a good idea to restrict consumption of alcohol, coffee, soft drinks, and tea as well. All of these beverages can stain your teeth or cause cavities. Awareness is the first step in keeping your oral health in great shape!
By taking care of your teeth at home, you’ll be taking charge of your oral care. Is it nearing the time for your appointment? Call Mayfair Family Dentistry today at 414-519-6724. We’ll see you soon!
