5 Daily Habits to Keep Your Teeth Healthy

Maintaining a healthy smile is more than just a routine visit to your preventive dentist in Cary. It involves incorporating daily habits that promote oral health. Here are five essential habits you should adopt to keep your teeth healthy and your smile bright.

1. Brush Your Teeth Twice a Day

The cornerstone of good oral hygiene is brushing your teeth twice a day. Using a soft-bristle toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste, ensure you brush all surfaces of your teeth, including the hard-to-reach back teeth. Brushing helps remove the plaque and food particles that accumulate on your teeth throughout the day, preventing tooth decay and gum disease.

2. Floss Daily

Flossing is just as important as brushing. It helps clean the spaces between your teeth where your toothbrush can't reach. Flossing daily removes trapped food particles and plaque, reducing the risk of cavities and gum disease. If you're unsure about the correct flossing technique, your preventive dentist can guide you during your next visit.

3. Drink Plenty of Water

Water is not only essential for overall health, but it's also beneficial for your oral health. Drinking water after meals helps wash away food particles and dilutes acids produced by bacteria in your mouth. It also stimulates saliva production, which naturally cleanses the mouth and neutralizes harmful acids.

4. Limit Sugary and Acidic Foods

Sugary and acidic foods can erode your tooth enamel, leading to cavities and tooth sensitivity. Limit your intake of these foods and drinks, and opt for healthier alternatives like fruits, vegetables, and dairy products. Remember, even 'healthy' sugars like those found in fruit can be harmful in excess, so moderation is key.

5. Regular Dental Check-ups

Even with excellent home care, regular visits to your preventive dentist are crucial. These check-ups allow for early detection and treatment of oral health issues before they become serious. Your dentist can also professionally clean your teeth, removing any plaque or tartar that has built up.

A Few More Tips

To further protect and enhance your oral health, consider incorporating these additional practices: 

• Chew sugar-free gum after meals to boost saliva production and neutralize acids. 
• Introduce a fluoride mouthwash into your routine for extra cavity protection and to reach areas brushing and flossing may miss. 
• Wear a mouthguard during sports to prevent dental injuries.
• Be mindful of your snacking habits, opting for teeth-friendly foods and avoiding frequent snacking that can lead to decay. 
• Lastly, take proper care of your toothbrush by rinsing and air-drying it after each use and replacing it every three to four months to ensure effective cleaning. 

Adopting these habits, along with regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups, can significantly contribute to maintaining a healthy, vibrant smile.

Schedule Your Dental Check-up Today

Good oral health is a vital part of your overall well-being. By adopting these daily habits and scheduling regular check-ups with your Cary preventive dentist, you're taking a proactive approach to your oral health. Don't wait until you have a problem to see your Cary dentist. At Myers + Co Family Dentistry, we're committed to helping you maintain a healthy smile. Call us today at (919) 851-5166 to schedule your next preventive dental appointment. Your teeth will thank you!