Are you determined to take better care of your smile this year, so that you can enjoy good oral health and also the benefits that come with having a beautiful smile? Dental checkups and cleanings are important, of course, but there are actually some very simple steps you can and should be taking at-home, as well, to keep your smile in great shape! From what you put on your dinner plate to what you drink on a regular basis, and how you care for your teeth before bed each night, if you really want to protect your oral health, make sure your preventive care includes healthy choices made throughout each day!
Are You Flossing As Well as Brushing?
Did you know that flossing is recommended by dentists precisely because it serves a different function than brushing? While brushing can help to clean the teeth, it is unable to remove much of the bacteria and food particles that can fall in between the teeth. That is because your toothbrush’s bristles cannot reach these small crevices effectively. Flossing, on the other hand, is designed to do precisely this, so combining flossing with brushing helps to keep the smile much cleaner in between professional cleanings.
Do You Provide Your Smile with the Rich Nutrients It Needs?
It is also helpful to eat a healthy diet that contains the nutrients your smile (and your whole body) needs to stay healthy and strong. This should include plenty of fruits and vegetables, plus other nutrient-rich items like lean proteins, healthy fats, and diary products.
That said, it is also important to be mindful of how much sugar you are consuming, since the bacteria in the mouth feed on sugars and other simple starches. To prevent cavities, it can be extremely helpful to cut back on sugar.
ABOUT YOUR WACO, TX, DENTIST:
We look forward to providing families with exceptional care and advanced treatment options. To schedule an appointment with Corbet Locke, DDS, contact our Waco, TX, dental office today by calling 254-776-4888. Our office welcomes patients in and around Waco, TX, including Hewitt, McGregor, Woodway, and the surrounding Central Texas communities.