Caring for your teeth and gums really isn’t that difficult. It just takes a little know-how!
You’ve just pulled yourself from the couch where you’ve been binging the latest show and now you need to get ready for bed. You’re exhausted and your brain is most likely on autopilot. You are brushing but you’re not really thinking about it. Does this sound like you? Habits such as brushing and flossing are habitual, so you may not really think about them, but our Greensboro, NC, family dentist Dr. Michelle Mottinger will tell you that it’s time to take a look at your habits to see where they can be improved.
Here’s how to improve your current oral care routine to reduce your risk for cavities and gum disease,
- Brush your teeth twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and ADA-approved fluoride toothpaste. Fluoride can help restore and strengthen enamel to prevent decay.
- Floss every day, preferably at night before bedtime. Flossing can remove plaque, food and bacteria from between teeth that brushing just can’t.
- Make sure you are eating a healthy balanced diet and avoiding sugary drinks and foods. Sugar is a major culprit of decay. If you do eat sugar it’s important to do so in moderation, and to brush your teeth immediately after.
- Considering adding an oral rinse into the mix after brushing and flossing. If your Greensboro, NC, general dentist has told you that you are prone to cavities or at risk for gum disease there are specialized mouth washes designed to reduce tartar and plaque buildup to protect against these two common dental problems.
- Quit smoking as soon as possible, as smoking can greatly increase your risk for gum disease and cavities.
- Replace your toothbrush every few months once the bristles splay out. Worn bristles won’t provide a thorough clean and may even damage enamel. Just gotten over an illness? This is another reason to immediately replace your toothbrush head.
- Visit your dentist twice a year for routine cleanings and exams.
We know that these are difficult times and with the pandemic, the main goal for our dentist and her team here in Greensboro, NC, is to keep everyone safe. While our office is temporarily closed for routine visits, know that we can provide you with care for dental emergencies. If you are dealing with a true dental emergency, please call us at (336) 375-1825.