Maintaining good oral health requires you to practice good oral care habits on a daily basis. Oral hygiene habits can be established early on, and it’s important that parents start to teach children basic oral hygiene practices. The best practices that will help maintain good oral health include the following:

• Brush and floss regularly

Brushing your teeth daily and flossing daily are essential for maintaining good oral health. The ADA recommends brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing at least once. Brushing and flossing remove plaque from the teeth, helping to prevent cavities and gum disease. Once food particles and plaque build-up, this can cause cavities. The best way to avoid cavities is to brush and floss regularly.

• Regular dental checkups and teeth cleanings

The best way to maintain a healthy smile is through preventative dental visits. These regular visits are an opportunity for your dentist to ensure your oral health is in good shape while also catching any problems early. Your dentist will also be able to advise you on the best at-home oral hygiene regimen.

Professional dental cleanings should be performed a minimum of twice each year. During your cleaning, your teeth will be cleaned by a dental hygienist using special instruments, including a dental polisher.

• Protective mouth wear

Mouthguards should be worn during any contact sport, as well as contact games such as kickboxing and basketball. If you grind your teeth in your sleep, a night guard can help protect your teeth and jaw.

• Eat a healthy diet

Eating a healthy diet can help to protect your teeth. It can also help to improve your overall health and well-being. On the other hand, a diet that is high in sugar and starch can increase the amount of plaque and bacteria in your mouth. This can cause tooth decay and cavities.

A healthy diet should include:

• Plenty of water and healthy snacks like raw veggies and cheese.
• Foods that are high in calcium, like dairy products and leafy greens.
• Lean proteins like chicken breast, fish, and eggs.
• Vegetables and fruits like carrots, apples, and citrus fruits.
• Foods rich in vitamin D like tuna, eggs, and mushrooms.
• Whole grains like brown rice, quinoa, and whole grain bread.

Of course, you can eat the occasional sweet treat or sugary beverage. Just make sure you’re brushing and flossing afterward.

• Avoid tobacco use and excessive alcohol use

Tobacco use can increase your risk of gum disease. Tobacco use can also increase your risk of oral cancer. It is best to avoid tobacco use, and if you have already begun using tobacco products, it is best to quit as soon as possible. Heavy alcohol use can also increase your risk of oral cancer and can also lower your resistance to infection. It is best to avoid heavy alcohol use. If you cannot break your habit, it is best to seek professional assistance.

To learn more dental tips, visit us at 310 S Dale Mabry Hwy Suite#120, Tampa, FL 33609. Contact us at (813) 999-1092 or visit our website to book an appointment.