Taking care of your oral health is not limited to brushing your teeth from time to time. By adopting a few good habits, you can preserve the health of your mouth and prevent many dental problems, such as cavities and gum disease. The team at Centre Dentaire Georges in LaSalle presents five essential tips for maintaining a healthy smile.
1. Brush your teeth at least twice a day
Brushing your teeth is the basis of good oral hygiene. To be effective:
- Brush your teeth at least twice a day, but ideally after each meal and at bedtime. It is also recommended to wait 30 minutes after eating before doing so. This gives saliva time to play its role and neutralize the acids that could otherwise enter the temporarily softened enamel.
- Brushing in the evening is particularly important. It removes food residue accumulated during the day that can promote plaque formation, especially since bacteria are particularly active at night due to low salivation.
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste to strengthen enamel.
- Replace your toothbrush every three months or as soon as the bristles are worn.
2. Floss daily
Even with rigorous brushing, some parts of your mouth, such as the spaces between your teeth, remain difficult to clean. This is where flossing becomes essential. It removes food residue and plaque in areas that are inaccessible to the toothbrush. Flossing at least once a day, preferably in the evening, helps prevent cavities and gum inflammation. Make sure to use it at the beginning of your routine, as it is easier to insert the floss between your teeth before the fluoride in the toothpaste has hardened their enamel.
3. Eat a balanced, low-sugar diet
What you eat has a direct impact on the health of your mouth. A balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals helps strengthen your teeth and gums. Here are some tips for a healthy diet:
- Limit sugary and sticky products such as candy, soft drinks and pastries, which promote the growth of bacteria responsible for cavities.
- Choose foods rich in vitamins and minerals such as calcium (dairy products, green vegetables) to strengthen tooth enamel and natural defenses against bacteria.
- Opt for crunchy fruits and vegetables such as carrots and apples, which stimulate saliva production, helping to naturally clean teeth.
4. Drink plenty of water
Water is an essential ally for good oral hygiene. By drinking water throughout the day, you help to:
- Rinse away food particles and acids produced by bacteria in your mouth.
- Maintain good hydration, which promotes adequate saliva production. Saliva plays a crucial role in neutralizing acids and protecting tooth enamel.
It is especially helpful to drink a glass of water after each meal to help clean your mouth and reduce the risk of cavities. Also, remember to rinse your mouth if you are unable to brush your teeth.
5. Schedule regular dental visits
There is no substitute for routine appointments to keep your teeth healthy. Schedule a visit to the dentist every six to twelve months for a complete exam and cleaning. These visits will allow your LaSalle dental team to detect problems early, before they become serious, and provide you with the appropriate treatments. You will also benefit from a dental cleaning, the only way to eliminate plaque and tartar.
We will also take the opportunity to provide you with personalized advice to help you maintain a healthy mouth and to answer all your questions. Do not hesitate to contact us!