Queens Long Island Dental Care
Daily brushing and flossing are necessary to maintain healthy teeth and gums. However, there are other things you can do that benefit your overall well-being. Please read below for ten oral health tips from your dentist in Valley Stream.
#1 BRUSH YOUR TEETH TWICE A DAY
Brushing your teeth with a soft-bristle toothbrush for two minutes twice a day, known as the 2×2 rule, helps remove plaque and oral bacteria that lead to tooth decay. To avoid damaging the soft tissue, brush with fluoride toothpaste and proper techniques using small circular motions. Please don’t forget to brush your tongue to fight bad breath.
#2 FLOSS DAILY
Floss nightly before brushing to remove anything your toothbrush is unable to dislodge. It may cause gums to be extra sensitive, which is natural and will stop once you’ve been flossing for a couple of days.
#3 MAINTAIN A HEALTHY DIET
Avoiding foods and drinks that are highly processed and laden with sugars plays a massive role in long-term dental health. Including foods high in calcium that can help support strong and healthy teeth, like leafy greens and cruciferous veggies, almonds, yogurt, and cheese.
#4 REPLACE YOUR TOOTHBRUSH REGULARLY
It is best to change your toothbrush every 3 to 6 months. Old, frayed toothbrushes don’t clean the tooth’s surface correctly and can damage your gums. Always rinse your toothbrush and store it upright to dry completely.
#5 USE DENTAL PRODUCTS
In addition to brushing and flossing, you can help keep your teeth in top condition by incorporating supplemental aids into your routine. Consider using mouthwash, oral irrigators, interdental, and tongue cleaners. These hygiene products can help support good oral health and should be used in addition to regular brushing and flossing.
#6 VISIT YOUR DENTIST EVERY SIX MONTHS
Regular dental visits will allow your dentist in Valley Stream to catch issues before they take hold. During this visit to the dental office, your teeth get a thorough cleaning from a hygienist to remove the buildup of plaque and tartar and shine up your tooth enamel with a buff and polish, and protected with a fluoride treatment.
#7 DENTAL SEALANTS
Dental sealants fill in the grooves of the top of your molars and premolars to protect your teeth from cavities. Everyone benefits from sealants, but children and teens are good candidates as they often don’t brush as thoroughly as adults.
#8 STAY HYDRATED
Avoid having a dry mouth throughout the day. Staying hydrated helps maintain healthy saliva flow by moving food particles through your mouth, preventing them from sticking between your teeth where bacteria can grow.
#9 DON’T SMOKE
Smoking causes tooth staining and severe health issues like gum disease, leading to tooth loss and oral cancer. The number one thing to do to care for your teeth and overall health is to quit smoking immediately.
#10 SELF EXAMINE REGULARLY
While regular checkups with your dentist in Valley Stream are an excellent preventive measure, issues can develop between visits. Quickly scan the inside of your mouth as part of your oral care routine. If anything seems unusual, share this information with your dentist at your next appointment.
Visit Your Dentist in Valley Stream, New York
Queens Long Island Dental Care, your dentist in Valley Stream, NY, has many years of experience and is here to guide you with the best dental hygiene tips. Our passion is to help you maintain optimal oral health and a beautiful, healthy smile. Schedule an appointment today.