Best Oral Care Practices for a Healthy, Winsome Smile

The more diligent you are in caring for your teeth, the healthier your teeth and gums will be. Good oral care entails daily brushing and flossing at home combined with professional dental cleanings from your dentist in Redlands, California, Dr. Jennifer Nation, at Brookside Smiles Dentistry. Biannual dental exams and cleanings increase your chances of maintaining a healthy, winsome smile year after year.

Importance of Good Oral Hygiene

Your dental hygiene program will have a tremendous impact on your oral health. If you’re diligent in caring for your teeth and gums, you’ll have stronger teeth and fewer dental problems. If you’re slack in your dental hygiene habits, you risk getting cavities and suffering from bad breath, oral infections, and gum disease. Left unchecked, oral infections and decay can spread throughout your mouth, leading to severely damaged teeth or premature tooth loss.

If oral infections spread into your bloodstream, they can cause serious health issues like liver and kidney damage, heart disease, diabetes, stroke, dementia, and respiratory illnesses. Good oral hygiene can protect your oral health and overall health so that you can benefit from a beautiful smile and a high quality of life over the years.

Best Oral Care Practices for Healthy Teeth

If you value your smile, you’ll do your part to practice exceptional oral hygiene care. The following oral care practices can contribute to keeping your teeth and gums in optimal health:

• Brush your teeth (and tongue) at least twice daily using fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush.
• Floss once daily.
• Use an anti-bacterial mouthwash daily.
• Visit your dentist semi-annually for a dental exam and professional cleaning.
• Strive to maintain a healthy diet that strengthens your teeth; limit sugary foods and drinks.
• Quit smoking and avoid using all kinds of tobacco products.

Beautiful smiles should never be taken for granted! Good oral care habits can help preserve the beauty of your smile for years. To learn more about dental hygiene or schedule a professional cleaning at Brookside Smiles Dentistry, contact your Redlands, California, dentist, Dr. Jennifer Nation, at (909) 300-9044.