Maintaining good oral health is the key to keeping your smile beautiful. With the right steps, you can reduce the appearance of teeth stains and help your smile remain free of tooth decay and gum disease. How do you improve oral health? Find out what you can do to promote excellent oral health.
Frequently Asked Questions About Improving Oral Health
Question: How often should I brush my teeth?
Answer: We recommend brushing your teeth twice a day, once in the morning and again before bed. You should brush for at least two minutes per session, using a toothbrush and toothpaste featuring the ADA seal of approval. We also suggest using a brush with soft bristles, as hard bristles can actually damage the outer enamel.
Question: Do I need to floss everyday?
Answer: Yes. You should thoroughly brush on either side of every tooth at least once a day. We recommend flossing before going to bed each night. For those who haven’t flossed in a while, consider using a floss pick initially.
Question: When do I need to see the dentist?
Answer: Instead of waiting until you develop a toothache, you should see the dentist at least once every six months. During these routine visits, the dentist will perform a checkup and dental cleaning. A checkup allows the doctor to watch for any warning signs of tooth decay, gum disease, oral cancer, or other health issues. A cleaning enables the doctor to remove plaque buildup from the teeth, which reduces the risk of developing gum disease.
Question: Does my diet matter?
Answer: Yes. To promote good oral health, we suggest drinking more water and adding fresh fruits and vegetables to your diet. Avoiding foods high in sugar and other starches can decrease the chances of developing tooth decay.
ABOUT YOUR BRIGHTON DENTISTS:
Located in Brighton, MA, Brighton Family Dental Group features experienced dentists and an excellent range of in-office treatments for every member of your family who needs dental care. If you’d like to learn more, you can schedule an appointment or consultation with Dr. Thomas Villani or Dr. Richard Kondrat by calling our office at (617) 562-5210.
