Looking to maintain a healthy, radiant smile? Regular flossing and twice-daily brushings are important, as well as regular visits to your local Radix Dentistry for professional cleanings and exams. Discover more care tips now.
What Behaviors Have The Most Impact On Your Dental Hygiene?
Excessive Sugar Consumption
We all need something sweet from time to time, but excessive sugar consumption can have serious consequences for our dental health. Sugar adds to the formation of bacterial plaque. Over time, if not properly removed, bacterial plaque is responsible for both tooth decay and gum disease.
Plaque On Teeth
Too much plaque buildup can lead to serious dental issues, including gum disease (gingivitis or even periodontitis). When not treated, plaque can harden into tartar, making it more difficult to remove with brushing alone.
Big Buildup
Plaque Causes:
- Cavities
- Gum disease
- Tooth decay
- Other serious dental issues
Tobacco Use
Smoking and chewing tobacco are the cause of many health concerns, including dental issues. Tobacco not only causes a buildup of plaque and tartar on your teeth, but nicotine also restricts blood flow to the gums and weakens your body’s ability to fight off disease. While teeth whitening treatments may help aesthetically, health issues like receding gums and bone loss, and vulnerability to mouth and throat cancers may be unavoidable.
Poor Oral Habits
Many of us have oral habits that cause unnecessary risk to our dental health. Sometimes, we may not even be aware that we are doing them. Check yourself for:
Nail Biting
Putting your hands in your mouth invites unwanted bacteria and damages your teeth and gums.
Thumb Sucking
Thumb sucking can push your teeth forward (overbite), potentially causing embarrassment over the appearance and possibly a speech impediment. Germs being introduced by the hands are also a concern.
Teeth Grinding
Teeth grinding can crack, chip, or fracture your teeth, seriously impacting your dental health. You also risk wearing down the enamel on your teeth, making it easier for bacteria to get inside. You may also experience chronic headaches and pain in your neck and ears.
Bolster Your Oral Hygiene Efforts
It’s important to visit your Radix Dentistry care team at least once a year (if not twice!) for a check-up. Between visits, consider making a few changes to keep on top of your dental hygiene.
Say Yes
- Fiber-rich fruits and veggies
- Low or non-fat dairy products
- Lean proteins
- Whole grains
- Green and black teas (to curb plaque bacteria)
Take A Pass
- Sticky candies and sweets
- Starchy breads and potato chips
- Carbonated soft drinks
- Alcoholic beverages
- Tobacco products
Use These Dental Care Best Practices
Keeping a healthy, beautiful smile doesn’t have to be hard; it just takes a little effort. Follow these best practices:
Brush & Floss Daily
Brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss daily. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and be careful not to brush or floss so vigorously that you irritate your gums or cause them to bleed.
Avoid Sugary Drinks & Sweets
Avoid sports drinks, sodas, and sugary sweets as much as possible; choose water when you’re thirsty instead.
Avoid Smoking & Tobacco Use
Avoid smoking and chewing tobacco. Not only is this better for your mouth, but it’s also better for your overall health.
Limit Daily Stress
Find ways to limit daily stress to avoid teeth-grinding, thumb-sucking, and nail-biting.
Visit Radix Dentistry
See your dentist once a year for cleanings and exams.
Ready To Make Your Appointment?
Radix Dentistry’s goal is to provide you with optimal care in a relaxed environment.
Contact us today to get started.