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Good oral habits are important to maintain good oral health. Here are a few habits that will help keep your smile in its best shape for years to come.

Brush your teeth Twice A Day

The American Dental Association recommends brushing your teeth at least twice per day, once in the morning and once before bed. You should spend a minimum of two minutes on each brushing session to ensure a thorough cleaning.

Brushing in the morning helps to clear away plaque and bacteria that have accumulated throughout the night. These substances can cause bad breath and other oral health issues if they aren’t removed promptly. Brushing at night will help to wash away any remaining food that could feed the bacteria.

Be sure to replace your toothbrush every three months or once the bristles start to fray. This will allow the brush to continue to clean effectively while protecting against harmful bacterial growth that could lead to gum disease. 

Floss Daily

Brushing your teeth at least twice a day is important, but flossing is just as vital for keeping your smile healthy and clean. Daily flossing removes plaque and bacteria buildup from between teeth and along the gum line, which can cause gum disease and tooth decay. In fact, skipping out on daily flossing can allow for cavities to form in areas in between the teeth where brushing alone can’t reach. Flossing also plays an important role in preventing gum disease because the buildup of plaque can lead to inflammation in the gums, which can increase the risk of periodontal disease.

Eat A Healthy Diet

Having a balanced diet is important, not just for your general health but your oral health as well. Eating a variety of healthy foods will give your body the nutrients it needs to fight off infection and inflammation. Additionally, eating well will reduce the risk of obesity and diabetes, both of which can increase your risk for gum disease and tooth loss. 

Visit Your Dentist Regularly

By visiting your dentist for regular cleanings and checkups, you can help maintain good oral health and avoid issues that may require more in-depth treatment. It’s important to visit the dentist at least twice a year for this important preventive care. During these visits, your hygienist and dentist will thoroughly examine your mouth, teeth, gums, tongue, throat, and neck for any potential problems. X-rays may also be taken as needed to help detect or diagnose any oral issues. A dental hygienist will then clean your teeth to remove any plaque or buildup that can contribute to tooth decay or gum disease. If any problems are detected, you may need treatments such as fluoride or sealants to help protect the teeth and restore health to the oral cavity. These regular trips can help catch small problems before they become larger ones down the road.

If you have any questions about oral care, Ami Desai, D.D.S., is here to help. For scheduling your appointments, please call (408) 946-0777 or visit our office at 440 E Calaveras Blvd, Milpitas, CA 95035. For more information, please contact us at frontdeskdrdesai@gmail.com.