Beyond Brushing and Flossing: 3 More Tips for Healthier Teeth
Brushing and flossing teeth are important steps to keeping your mouth healthy. They are imperative actions that will assure that teeth are teeth clean and free of food particles. However, there are other good habits you can employ if you want to go the extra mile.
1. Add Mouthwash
Mouthwash can freshen your breath, but it can also do much more. There are many different types of mouthwashes, so you should choose one that best fits your needs. Antibacterial mouthwashes can kill germs that cause cavities and gum disease. Fluoride mouthwashes are proven to help prevent cavities. Other types can whiten teeth, help remove plaque, and even help heal mouth sores.
2. Drink Water
Drinking water is a good habit for your overall health. It is particularly good for your teeth for several reasons. First, water helps rinse food and particles off of your teeth. Second, it can replace beverages that are high in acid content such as tea and coffee. Even if you do not replace these beverages with water, simply drinking water after them will help get the acids off of your teeth. Finally, drinking water keeps you hydrated, so your saliva levels stay high. Saliva is actually the body’s best defense against acids since the proteins and minerals in it can counteract the enamel-eroding acids in your mouth.
3. Eat Well
Your diet plays a huge part in the health of your teeth and gums. Eating foods rich in all vitamins and minerals is important. Foods rich in calcium and vitamin D are especially critical for strong teeth. Choose foods like milk, cheese, or yogurt that have both nutrients since the vitamin D makes it easier for the body to absorb the calcium. In addition, foods high in phosphorus, such as meat, eggs, and fish are beneficial. Phosphorus can help remineralize the teeth, a process where essential minerals are deposited on teeth to strengthen the enamel. Equally important is to eat foods that require a lot of chewing. Crunchy vegetables like carrots, celery, and bell peppers are great choices. These will help your mouth to produce more saliva, the body’s own natural teeth cleaning fluid. Likewise, chewing sugarless gum has a similar, positive effect on the teeth.
Healthy teeth are vital. They help you chew food, talk, and have a healthy smile. Taking care of your teeth is the best way to assure that they will remain useful and strong.
About the Company:
Dr. Kouyoumdjian received his Doctoral of Dental Surgery degree from the University of Southern California where he focused on esthetic dentistry. He has received several professional awards and regularly attends training sessions to stay up-to-date on the latest cosmetic dentistry. Several other services are also available, including teeth whitening and general dentistry. The whole staff at Studio City Dental Center strives to make patients comfortable and have a pleasant experience.