Products that Promote Good Dental Health
People only get two sets of teeth – baby teeth and adult teeth – so taking care of them is essential. The right dental hygiene strategy will reduce the odds of cavities, gum disease and other problems. Dental health might seem complicated, but it really takes only a few minutes a day.
Let’s look at some of the most important aspects of good dental health:
Pick a Good Toothbrush and Use it Twice a Day
Everyone learns to use a toothbrush at an early age, but most people aren’t told much about picking the right toothbrush. Generally, a soft-bristled toothbrush is best since it is less likely to agitate the gums. If you use an electric toothbrush, make sure it is multi-speed so you can use a gentle setting near the gum line. Crisscross bristles help clean hard-to-reach areas.
Floss Daily, Especially After Meals
Many people find flossing difficult. Using a floss holder can help you get a better grip and clean between teeth more efficiently. You can also consider using a water flosser. A water flosser uses a jet of water to clean between teeth – the water can be treated with mouthwash to make it more effective. No matter what method you use, flossing is crucial.
Use a Good Mouthwash
Mouthwash can come with many different ingredients that make it more powerful. As with toothpaste, fluoride is the most important as it fights tooth decay.
Lesser known, but still valuable, are CPC (cetylpyridinium chloride) and chlorhexidine gluconate, both of which can prevent gingivitis. Carboxymethylcellulose and hydroxyethylcellulose can also stimulate saliva production which is good for the teeth.
Use caution with mouthwashes that contain alcohol as overuse can be harmful to mouth tissues.
Beware of Bad Dental Habits
Many of the things people do every day can damage their dental health. For example, drinking lots of soda can contribute to tooth decay because of the high sugar content. Other dark drinks, like wine or coffee, can discolor teeth as well. Smoking also greatly increases one’s risk of gum disease and damage to the underlying bone that supports the teeth. It also stains the teeth and causes bad breath.
Dental Health Associates
If you want to ensure the highest level of dental health now and in the future, visiting a dentist twice per year is one of the most important things you can do. Regular dental visits help you prevent tartar from accumulating on your teeth. Plus, your Madison, WI dentist can spot issues with your teeth and gums before they have a chance to progress and become more serious. To find out more or set an appointment, contact Dental Health Associates today.
