Hoover, AL, Dentist Discusses Your Healthy Mouth & The Importance of Oral Health Care at Home
You trust the health of your teeth and gums to your Hoover, AL, dentist, but who’s in charge of keeping your mouth healthy in between your 6-month dental checkups? YOU, that’s who! Our Perrigo Dental Care dentists are here to give you a few tips on how to make sure your teeth stay in tip-top shape during the months between your regular dental cleanings in Hoover, AL.
4 Tips to a Healthy Mouth, According to Our Hoover, AL, Dentist
Tip #1: Beware the Sugar Bug!
When you indulge in sugar-heavy treats such as candy or soda, the sugary residue left behind on your teeth creates a breeding ground for unhealthy bacteria. Given enough time, that bacteria can result in a variety of problems, including tooth decay, cavities, and gum disease. To avoid getting “sugar bugs” in your mouth, limit your intake of high-sugar and high-corn-syrup foods and drinks. If you do have a sugary treat, then brush your teeth afterward – or at least rinse your mouth with plain water to dilute the sugar.
Tip #2: Brush & Floss Daily
You’ve probably heard this one before, but it certainly bears repeating. Brushing at least twice a day and flossing at least once a day not only removes the sugar and food particles that attract bacteria; it also removes plaque before it can harden into tartar. Tartar can form in under 24 hours, so missing even one day of brushing means you will likely end up with tartar that your toothbrush won’t be able to remove.
Tip #3: Make Fluoride Your Friend
Fluoride is a mineral that can actually repair very early damage to your teeth on a microscopic level. By drinking fluoride-infused water (such as city tap water) and by rinsing your mouth once a day with a fluoride-based mouthwash, you can help to keep your teeth strong and less prone to chipping or cracks.
Tip #4: Ask Your Hoover, AL, Dentist about Sealants
Dental sealants are a preventative material that your Hoover dentist can put over the deep crevices in your back teeth. This keeps your teeth from having too many crevices where food particles or bacteria can get caught. This way, dental sealants from your Hoover dentist can stop cavities or tooth decay before it even has a chance to start. At your next appointment with your Hoover, AL, dental office, ask if sealants would be a good option for you.
Reduce the Risk of Cavities with Advice from Your 5-Star-Rated Dentist in Hoover, AL
Sometimes, cavities just happen, no matter what kind of preventative measures you take for your oral health. However, with these four simple steps, you can make tooth decay and gum disease much less likely to occur in between your regular dental exam and dental cleaning with your Hoover dentist. Here’s to keeping your mouth happy and healthy!
This information is not meant as medical advice. It is provided solely for education. Our Hoover, AL, dental office would be pleased to discuss your unique circumstances and needs as they relate to this topic. Call 205-822-7822 or click here to schedule an appointment with one of our friendly, expert dentists today.