The best way to promote a lifetime of healthy teeth and gums for you and your family is through regular dental care, including brushing and flossing with fluoride toothpaste, drinking plenty of water, eating a nutritious diet rich in oral health-promoting nutrients, and making routine visits for professional cleanings and oral exams.
Regular dental cleanings remove hardened plaque and tartar, which can help prevent cavities and gum disease. Your dentist or dental hygienist will also examine your mouth for signs of tooth decay, gum disease, cancer, and other problems that can be addressed early to avoid more invasive procedures down the road.
Tooth decay is caused by bacteria in a sticky biofilm called plaque, which can damage teeth and gums. When left unattended, plaque can lead to tooth decay and gingivitis. To keep your teeth and gums as healthy as possible, brush twice a day for two minutes each time with a soft-bristled toothbrush and a toothpaste that contains fluoride. Brush the front and back sides of your teeth, along the chewing surfaces, and your tongue. Avoid sharing toothbrushes, as this spreads germs.
Flossing removes food and plaque residue between your teeth that brushing can’t reach. Floss daily with dental floss or a water flosser, and be sure to use proper technique (wrapping the floss around each tooth in a C shape) to avoid harming delicate gum tissues.
Studies show that fluoride can reduce the risk of cavities in both children and adults. It works by strengthening tooth enamel, which helps prevent decay, and it’s added to most public water supplies. If you don’t have access to fluoridated public water, ask your local dentist in Torrance, CA about prescription topical fluoride toothpaste or gels that can be applied directly to your teeth to provide an extra dose of fluoride.
In addition to daily brushing and flossing, mouth rinses can help improve your oral health by killing bacteria and freshening your breath. When selecting a mouth rinse, read the label to make sure it’s safe and appropriate for your age group.
Gum disease is a major problem for many people, and it can lead to other health problems. Studies have linked periodontitis to premature birth and low birth weight in babies, and it can increase the risk of respiratory diseases like pneumonia. To protect your teeth and gums, brush and floss regularly, eat a well-balanced diet that includes lots of fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins, avoid tobacco and sugary beverages, and visit the dentist every 6 months for cleanings and examinations. By following these simple steps, you can maintain a smile to last a lifetime.