Is there a better feeling than going for a dental cleaning, and finding out that you have no cavities? Woo hoo! No painful follow-up appointment, no needles, and not to mention, no expensive dental bill. Your oral health will benefit from a rigorous teeth cleaning routine. To help your dental appointments go as smoothly as possible, here are five ways that you can keep your pearly whites extra sparkly:
- Replace your toothbrush often. If you’re like me, then you are always tempted to buy the least expensive toothbrush at the store. But this runs the risk of using bristles that are too hard, which can wear away your gums and cause receding. Is it worth saving a few bucks to damage your teeth? Instead, buy a brush with soft bristles to show your mouth some TLC. Once you have the right tool for the job, remember to brush twice a day. It’s recommended that you change your toothbrush every three months so that it cleans as efficiently as possible.
- Buy fluoridated toothpaste. You’re familiar with the fluoride treatment you receive at your semi-annual cleanings - but why limit it to once every six months? By using a fluoridated toothpaste, you’ll enjoy the benefits of this treatment every day. Make sure that you don’t swallow any of it as it can upset your stomach. In Winnipeg, our tap water contains small amounts of fluoride, so drinking it will strengthen your teeth!
- Don’t forget to floss! Okay, we get it: no one likes flossing. But sometimes the things we want to do the least are the most important for our health, and flossing is one of those things. If you have trouble flossing with a long string, purchase the kind with handles at a drugstore; they make it easier to reach the back teeth. Floss your teeth before you go to bed so that you aren’t sleeping with a mouthful of food debris and plaque.
- Use mouthwash. An antibacterial mouthwash can go a long way in preventing the formation of cavities. It also takes care of any bad breath - garlic and onions, anyone? For the spots on your teeth that your brush and floss can’t reach, rinse with antibacterial mouthwash. It removes any leftover acids from beverages like soda and coffee. By adding mouthwash to your dental health routine, you’ll reduce your risk of cavities, gingivitis, and gum disease.
- Eat a healthier diet. Certain foods spell out trouble for your oral health. If you want to be cavity-free and save your teeth from damage, then stay away from chewing the following: sticky candies, ice, and very hard foods. Replace them with vegetables like carrots and celery which can actually clean your teeth. It’s also a good idea to cut out sodas, even sugar-free kinds, as they are highly acidic. Your body and your mouth will benefit from a healthier diet, which includes a balance of fruits, proteins, grains, and vegetables.
These tips will help you create an oral health routine that dentists will approve of. The next step is by scheduling regular check-ups with your dentist. When you need a dental cleaning in Winnipeg, call EK Dental. Our dentists speak nine different languages! We’ll be happy to clean your teeth and make you smile while we do so.