Staying home with your family and practicing good social distancing (and washing your hands!) is an excellent way to help slow the spread of COVID-19. If you’re currently staying home, you can still be taking actions to protect the health, beauty, and function of your smile. In today’s blog, your Overland Park, KS, dentist talks about safeguarding smiles against cavities and gum disease.
Fighting Cavities and Gum Disease
When we don’t eat a healthy diet, and we don’t brush and floss our smiles properly, this could lead to a higher risk of cavities, dental infections, gingivitis, and yes, even gum disease. When bacteria break down the particles trapped on and between our teeth, this elevates oral acidity and also coats the teeth in a sticky layer of plaque buildup. Over time, plaque not only hardens into tartar, but also erodes outer enamel and inflames gum tissue, increasing the risk of cavities and gum disease. To avoid aching teeth and bleeding gums, you need to practice good oral hygiene!
Brushing and Flossing Your Teeth
Each day, start things off by brushing your teeth for two minutes. Using a toothbrush, whether electric or manual, with soft bristles to avoid wearing down your enamel. Make sure your toothpaste contains fluoride, as this strengthens the outer layer of tooth enamel. Before going to bed at night, brush again for two minutes. You also need to floss your teeth thoroughly. You should run the floss tape up and own each side of every tooth. Dip below the gum line briefly in a “c” motion too, as this dislodges and removes food particles. You then deprive harmful bacteria of a meal, and protect your smile in the process! These actions also help offer fresh breath and brighter smiles, too.
What About My Diet?
When we enjoy too many sugary and starchy snacks, like candy and chips, or sugary beverages, such as sodas, energy drinks, sports drinks, and fruit juices, we feed harmful bacteria and increase the risk of cavities and periodontal disease. Instead, try to drink more water, and also add fresh fruits and vegetables to your diet. Other healthy snack options include sugar-free gum, low-fat yogurt, cheeses, and nuts. If you have any questions about protecting the health and beauty of your smile from home, then contact our team today. Know that if you do need to see us, we follow strict safety and healthy protocols to safeguard your smile.
Do You Have Questions?
We want to help you and your family continue to maintain optimal oral health from home. To learn more about preventive dentistry and homecare, such as proper brushing and flossing, schedule your consultation by calling Family First Dental in Overland Park, KS, today at 913-381-2600.