A healthy mouth not only enhances your appearance and self-confidence but also contributes to your general health. That’s why it’s so important to conduct routine oral health and hygiene practices. But could you be doing more for your smile? Our Austin, TX, dentist is here to help.
If you have questions or concerns about your smile, contact Dr. Helen Ragsdale at Austin Laser Dentist. Our top-rated Austin, TX, dentist delivers tailored advice and treatments to meet your needs, giving you nothing but optimal care. Call (512) 346-4690 to experience better dental care now!
While flossing and brushing are the cornerstone of good oral hygiene, there are other things you can do to enhance your routine oral health practices. So, in today’s post, we share 8 routine oral health tips that can make a significant impact on your dental hygiene and overall health.
1. Brush Twice Daily
Brushing just once a day can leave traces of food and plaque behind. However, brushing twice daily helps remove more debris, ensuring cleaner, healthier teeth. However, brushing frequency is just part of the equation.
For enhanced brushing, our Austin dentist recommends:
- Using a fluoride or hydroxyapatite toothpaste for remineralization
- Using a brush with soft bristles
- Brushing for at least two minutes every time
- Brushing all sides of teeth
- Scraping the tongue to remove bacteria and plaque
2. Floss Daily
Flossing is the best way to remove unwanted debris and plaque between teeth. In fact, research suggests that those who floss experience fewer oral health issues, like gum disease, cavities, and tooth loss.
So, whether you use string floss, interdental brushes, or a water flosser, aim to floss your teeth at least once daily.
3. Use Mouthwash
Incorporating mouthwash into your daily routine can provide additional protection against tooth decay and gum disease. Our Austin dentist recommends using an antimicrobial or remineralizing mouthwash for optimal benefits.
4. Eat a Balanced Diet
While delicious, foods high in sugars and acids can be a major problem for teeth, as they erode enamel and lead to cavities. Instead, focus on a balanced diet rich in whole grains, dairy, fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins.
5. Drink Plenty of Water
Water is key to a healthy smile, but not just any water – plain, unflavored, and uncarbonated water. Water additives and carbonation can be acidic, which wears away dental enamel and leads to decay.
6. Avoid Tobacco Products
Using tobacco in any form can lead to oral and systemic health issues, like gum disease, cancer, and respiratory diseases. Quitting smoking and avoiding tobacco products can dramatically improve your oral health and reduce your risk of serious health issues.
7. Limit Sugary and Acidic Foods
Sugary treats are very rewarding to consume, but they can wreak havoc on our smiles. Similarly, acidic refreshments can quickly strip away tooth enamel, leading to sensitivity and cavities. Keep these goodies to a minimum.
8. Visit Your Dentist Regularly
Regular dental check-ups are a great way to clean your chompers, detect the early signs of dental issues, and receive personalized advice. Aim for two dental visits every year for optimal care.
Routine Oral Health Exams in Austin, TX
Implementing these routine oral health tips can have a profound impact on your dental hygiene and overall well-being. But consistency is key, so schedule your next dental exam at Austin Laser Dentist today. You can request appointments on our website, or you can dial (512) 346-4690 to reserve your spot now.
