Blog Coburg Dental Group

Most people will judge your overall hygiene by the state of your teeth. A bright smile will also add to your overall confidence. Maintaining the pearly whites, however, requires quite a bit of effort. Other than the proper use of teeth, such as avoiding activities such as opening bottles with your teeth, the following are important to maintain healthy and strong teeth.

Regular Cleaning

Tooth decay and gum disease occur when bacteria in food accumulates and secretes sticky material on the teeth. As the bacteria feed on the sugars, the result is that acid and other wastes destroy the tooth enamel. The primary way to stop this is through the removal of food particles immediately after eating. Dentists recommend brushing the teeth at least twice a day. However, brushing is not enough. There is a need to get in between the teeth spaces where food particles lodge. This requires flossing to get between the spaces. When brushing, use a soft-bristled toothbrush and a fluoride-based toothpaste to avoid damaging the gums and tooth surface. In addition, use soft and delicate strokes with the toothbrush for effective cleaning.

Diet

Teeth much like bones require a balanced diet for strength and health. The key nutritional requirements for strong and healthy teeth include calcium, vitamin c, potassium and phosphorous. Foods rich in these minerals include meat, cheese, green leafy vegetables, fruits, and wholegrain foods. Various foods work against your healthy smile and promote tooth decay and gum disease. These include sugary foods and snacks such as sugar-rich gums, pastries, sticky sweets and soft drinks. It is important to keep the intake of these foods to a minimum for proper teeth care. After eating or drinking rinse your mouth immediately with clean water and brush your teeth as soon as you can.

Visit the Dentist Regularly

While the above measures may be effective in promoting strong and healthy teeth, regular visits to the dentist are recommended. Many people visit the dentist only when they have teeth issues. However, it is recommended that you visit the dentist and hygienist at least twice a year for a check-up and thoroughly clean. The dentist will then be able to detect problems such as plaque build-up, gum disease, and other issues before they escalate. These preventative measures save money and effort that would otherwise be required for later treatment. To make an appointment, call 9386 1805