5 Tools For A Healthier Smile
Like we’ve said before, when it comes to the war on tooth decay and having a healthier smile, the first line of defense is…
YOU!
Your everyday, at-home, oral hygiene practices are not only your first line of protection against dental problems, they are also the best way to maintain a brilliant, eye-catching smile.
Regular checkups and cleanings at Dentist Brandon MS are super-important, but when you’ve kept up with your “homework”; your visits here will be short and sweet and inexpensive.
And because your at-home dental care routine is so important to your dental health, we want to take a moment to mention some tools that help make that job easier and more effective.
5 Tools For A Healthier Smile
Obviously, your toothbrush, some floss, and a good fluoride toothpaste are the “must have” items for a healthier smile, but check out the list below, you may want to add one or more of these great items to your toolkit:
Electric toothbrush
These are a great addition to your dental care routine because they can clean the surface of the teeth more consistently than just a regular toothbrush. They also deliver a good polishing action, and are great for massaging the gums.
Dental picks or sticks
We prefer that you properly use floss once or twice a day, but if you are one of the people who has trouble with floss, then these interdental cleaning aids can help with removing debris and plaque between the teeth and below the gum line. Just exercise care – it is possible to cause damage to the enamel or irritation to the gums if you use them too aggressively.
Oral irrigators
“Water-flossers”, as they are called are a great addition to your routine. However, don’t make the mistake of thinking that they can replace regular brushing and flossing. They are especially useful when it comes to cleaning more thoroughly around braces or fixed partial dentures. And just like the dental picks and sticks, they are great for people who have trouble flossing. If you decide to add one to your routine, be sure to select one that allows you to adjust the water pressure, too much pressure can be painful, and can actually be damaging.
Oral rinses & mouthwashes
This is really almost as basic as the toothbrush and toothpaste. A good oral rinse helps to kill bacteria that can cause bad breath and well as gum disease. Many are also formulated to help strengthen teeth and even whiten your smile. There are also special formulations that help treat oral conditions such as chronically dry mouth.
Teeth whiteners
The best way to whiten your teeth is with daily flossing, brushing, rinsing, and regular professional checkups and cleanings. But you can use some of the over the counter whitening agents in between checkups. Especially if you are prone to yellowing or staining due to smoking or drinking red wine or coffee. But don’t overdo it. Whitening strips and gels usually contain peroxide and can be pretty harsh on your sensitive tissues if not used carefully.
Keeping It Real
We can’t stress it enough: Daily flossing, brushing and rinsing are the most important things you can do to protect your oral health; and by extension; your overall health. The second most important thing is to see your dentist at least twice per year for checkups and cleanings. That will keep your teeth and gums healthy, and also catch problems at an early stage.
But if you want to add another level of care to your daily routine that will ensure a healthier smile, you might consider some of the items listed above.
When was your last checkup?
If you are due or almost due, why not go ahead and pick up the phone right now?
Go ahead and make that appointment while it’s fresh on your mind; and that will add to your peace of mind!
Brushing & Flossing | Exams & Cleanings | Fluoride Treatments
X-Rays | Dental Sealants | Dental Treatment Plans
Fillings | Inlays & Onlays | Crowns | Implants
Whitening | Composite Fillings | Dental Bonding
Periodontal Services | Periodontal Treatment & Therapy
Oral Surgery | Root Canals | Dental Emergencies | Find A Dentist
Return to:
Home