Healthy Habits for Healthy Smiles
At High Street Dentistry, we emphasize the importance of healthy habits to enhance your smile and quality of life. From brushing and flossing to smile-healthy nutrition and routine dental exams and cleanings, preventive dental care plays a critical role in maintaining healthy teeth and gums. Our dedicated team has put together tips and practical advice to help you enjoy long-term healthy smiles.
Maintain Good At-Home Oral Hygiene Practices
Make sure you brush your teeth at least twice a day using a soft-bristled brush and fluoride toothpaste. We also recommend flossing daily to remove plaque and food particles trapped in those hard-to-reach places between your teeth. Don’t forget to brush your tongue, which can provide a perfect hiding spot for harmful oral bacteria.
Limit Sugary and Acidic Foods and Beverages
Harmful bacteria thrive on sugar, which is why we always recommend limiting sugary foods and drinks. As they feast, the cavity-causing bacteria produce acids that attack and erode your tooth enamel, leading to decay. Acidic foods and beverages are also harmful to your teeth because they erode and weaken your tooth enamel, leaving it at risk for cavities.
Maintain a Healthy Diet
A healthy, balanced diet is not only important for your health, but it also provides your gums and teeth with the nutrients they need to stay healthy and strong. When choosing a snack, opt for crunchy fruits and vegetables like pears, apples, celery, or carrots. These foods increase saliva production, which helps flush away bacteria and food particles, enhancing your oral health. They also act like toothbrushes, cleaning your teeth and removing surface stains.
Drink Plenty of Water to Stay Hydrated
Drinking plenty of water is one of the best things you can do for your smile. It helps flush your mouth, washes away food debris and bacteria, and neutralizes acids, preventing staining and keeping your smile clean and fresh. Staying hydrated also lowers the risk of dry mouth, which is linked to tooth decay, gum disease, bad breath, and a host of oral health problems.
Keep Up with Regular Dental Cleanings and Exams
At High Street Dentistry, we are proponents of preventive dental care to halt the onset and progression of dental disease. If you haven’t seen a dentist in the past six months, we invite you to contact us to schedule a dental cleaning and exam. During your appointment, we will gently remove plaque and tartar buildup from your teeth and gum line, lowering your risk of tooth decay and gum disease. Your routine visits also allow us to identify and address any dental problems in their earliest stages, preventing them from progressing and requiring costly and involved treatments down the road.
Preventive Dentistry Near Me in Jefferson City, MO
Dr. Jones and our dedicated team at High Street Dentistry are pleased to offer tips and advice to help you maintain your smile’s health, function, and beautifully natural appearance. Contact us to learn more about our preventive dental services designed to promote healthy smiles that last a lifetime. We invite you to call (573) 636-7432 to schedule your appointment or request one online today!