3 Tips for Keeping a Smile Healthy

3 Tips for Keeping a Smile Healthy 

A smile can say a thousand words—it’s the universal accessory you can wear every day, and the most beautiful smiles are healthy smiles. Keeping your smile free of bacteria buildup and decay is important for more than just aesthetic reasons, as recent evidence has suggested a strong connection between oral health and whole-body wellness.

Fortunately, keeping your smile healthy is as easy as 1, 2, 3. 

1: Visit Your Dentist

Regular dental appointments are imperative to check for any unsightly developments in your oral structure. Only a dental professional can see the early signs of disease and decay, and take the necessary steps to stop these complications. 

You should visit the dentist at least every six months or as recommended by your dentist. Teeth will be professionally cleaned at these check-ups, halting the development of cavities and gingivitis. You may also receive preventive treatments, such as sealants and fluoride rinses, to avoid future issues. 

2: At-Home Care Matters 

Although it’s necessary to visit the dentist, it’s equally as important to maintain your oral health between dental appointments. 
Make sure to brush at least twice a day, using a toothbrush that’s soft-bristled toothbrush. An overly-hard bristle brush will create small scratches in your enamel. Floss once per day, at minimum. A toothbrush alone can’t reach the plaque and leftover food that accumulates between teeth and along the gum line.

3: Eat a Well-Balanced Diet

The food we put into our bodies affects us in so many ways, namely our oral health. High-calcium foods like dairy products and leafy greens are great for helping the body maintain healthy enamel. Aside from the nutritional aspect, there are mechanical benefits to eating healthy. Foods like apples have a fibrous texture that stimulates the gums and saliva production. Incorporate foods like these, as well as vitamins and adequate water consumption, to ensure your optimal oral health.

When the body is dehydrated, it doesn’t produce as much saliva. A dry mouth is a mouth more susceptible to decay. Saliva keeps the enamel strong and breaks down food particles that would otherwise feed bacteria. 

Now you see how simple it can be to keep your teeth strong and healthy! Applying these principles consistently will help you reach your optimal oral health. If you have any more questions about oral health care, reach out to the office of Dr. Jose Ruiz. At our office, we provide our patients with the gentle care they need to thrive. We look forward to hearing from you!