Though many people hate visiting the dentist, the truth is, appointments are never as bad as you think! Remember that dentists are there to help you and check on your dental health, and improve or correct anything that may need extra work. Find a dentist you’re comfortable around who will walk you through anything you’re particularly anxious about, and who will answer all the questions you need to ask. As a patient, however, there are many things you can do at home to improve your dental health, which will make your visits even more of a breeze.

Daily brushing is certainly a great way to make sure your teeth are taken care of, but there are many other things you can do and use to further improve your dental health. And what better time to start than the beginning of a new year? Here are some of Walden Square Dental’s favorite tips on improving dental health:

  • Switch Up Your Products. Make sure you’re switching out your toothbrush for a new one with fresh bristles at least every 3-4 months. If it’s been longer than 4 months since you’ve replaced your toothbrush, chances are it’s not doing the best job at cleaning your teeth! You may also consider replacing it sooner if you’ve been sick, to eliminate any lingering germs that may be left behind on your toothbrush. Also, consider getting a new toothpaste, or at least checking on your current toothpaste, and make sure it has fluoride and the ADA (American Dental Association) seal of approval.
  • Brushing Technique. So you have all the products, but how are you actually brushing? You’ll want to brush at a 45-degree angle, moving it back and forth in short strokes, making sure to pay attention to each individual tooth in your mouth. Get every side and each surface to remove as much plaque and buildup as possible. And make sure you’re brushing your tongue to free it of any bacteria it may have from food!
  • Floss, Floss, Floss! You’ve probably heard your dentist tell you to floss more, and they’re right! Never underestimate the importance of flossing. Many people remember to brush their teeth twice per day, but not to floss once per day. Flossing helps prevent tooth decay and gum disease and helps remove plaque or food in between your teeth that your toothbrush may not be able to reach.
  • Eat Your Fruits and Veggies. Diet and nutrition affect your overall health, but especially your oral health. Antioxidants found in healthy, leafy fruits, veggies, and legumes help fight against bacteria in germs in your mouth, thereby protecting your teeth and gums. Plus, they help keep your breath fresh!
  • Quit Smoking. Smoking and tobacco products cause cavities, gum disease, tooth discoloration, and throat, lung, and oral cancer. All of this makes smokers about twice as likely to lose their teeth than non-smokers. Quitting the use of all tobacco products will protect your overall health, and keep your dental hygiene much more in check.
  • Limit Alcohol Intake. Drinking alcohol excessively can cause gum recession, or periodontal pocketing, which cannot be cured once it occurs.
  • Visit Your Dentist! Schedule 2 visits per year to the dentist to check in on your oral hygiene professional, so they can find any problems early before treatment becomes difficult or impossible.

Get a headstart on improving your dental health in 2021 with a visit to Walden Square Dental. Our experienced professionals are dedicated to giving you the individual attention you deserve while keeping you happy throughout your appointment, and after you leave with the quality and aesthetics of your teeth. Visit our Facebook for oral hygiene tips, visit our website to make an appointment, or give us a call at 847-223-0110.

Sources:
https://www.deltadentalins.com/oral_health/new-year.html
https://www.carillondental.com/blog/5-steps-improve-oral-health
https://www.biolase.com/blog/6-new-years-resolutions-dental-health/
https://carifree.com/2017/09/07/master-your-oral-health-in-11-easy-steps/?