How are Your Oral Hygiene Habits?

It’s time to put your oral care routine to the test.Brush, floss, repeat. Would you say this is your daily mantra? Or would you agree that perhaps when it comes to your oral health that you don’t always follow smile-friendly habits? We know that it’s impossible to be perfect all the time, however with the best habits in place you can protect your smile from cavities and gum disease. Follow some of these useful oral health tips from our Norwich, CT, general dentist, Dr. Edward Yates.At-Home Care is KeyAs you might have guessed, how you care for your smile is so very important to protecting your teeth and gums from problems. Luckily, daily oral care is actually pretty simple and straightforward. Set a timer for two minutes. This is the minimum amount of time you should be brushing. Here are some other rules to follow: Look for an American Dental Association (ADA) seal of approval when purchasing toothpaste. Make sure the toothpaste you use contains fluoride, which helps remineralize tooth enamel and aids in the prevention of cavities. The type of toothbrush you use (manual vs. electric) really doesn’t matter; however, if you have trouble with dexterity or knowing how much pressure to apply to your teeth when brushing, then you may want to opt for an electric toothbrush (better yet, look for one with a built-in timer). Floss daily, preferably at night before brushing your teeth (flossing before brushing ensures that plaque has been removed between teeth so that toothpaste can get into those spaces between teeth and provide a more thorough clean) Make sure you are brushing at least twice a day (and if you really want to give your smile a proper clean then brush after every meal).Good Nutrition is EssentialWhat you eat doesn’t just impact your general health but also your oral health, too. Chances are good that you’ve heard our Norwich dentist tell you that consuming sugar can wreak havoc on your teeth. Now, we know that a little sugar every once in a while as a treat shouldn’t cause serious issues; however, if you load up on sodas, candies, desserts, white starches, and sports drinks, then you may certainly find yourself dealing with more cavities. A smile-friendly diet should consist of: Fruits and vegetables Whole grains Lean proteins (e.g. fish; chicken) Low-fat dairy (e.g. yogurt; cheese) Nuts and legumesNo matter whether you want to discuss cosmetic services to enhance your smile or you just need to schedule a routine dental exam, our team here in Norwich, CT, would be happy to provide you with the dental care it deserves. Call Norwich Aesthetic Dentistry today.