If you take good care of your teeth and gums, they can stay healthy and beautiful. When your teeth are well cared for and healthier, it reduces your risk for gum disease and tooth decay. But healthy teeth can also be key to preventing a wide variety of other conditions.
Here are the best tips for you and your Markham dentists to keep your teeth and gums beautiful.
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Brush Daily
It is recommended to brush at least twice a day. Ideally, you should brush after every meal or snack. Remember to wait about 30 minutes after you’ve finished eating to protect enamel that may have softened to re-harden. Brushing removes plaque which is a cover of bacteria on the teeth. When you don’t brush, plaque can build up and lead to cavities. Brushing after meals helps keep this build-up to a minimum.
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Floss Daily
Your teeth should be flossed at least once daily. Flossing helps get rid of any food or built up plaque from between the teeth. The toothbrush cannot reach between the teeth and plaque, if left alone will harden and become tartar. Flossing keeps the in-between spaces clean from food particles and debris.
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Rinsing Daily
Mouthwash will do far more than just keep your breath fresh. Rinsing at least once a day with an antiseptic mouthwash will kill bacteria that leads to plaque and eventually gum disease. Using a fluoride rinse can help prevent tooth decay and cavities for most people.
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Eat Right
Good dental health and beautiful teeth start with eating right. Minimize the consumption of foods that produce acid. Sugars and starches produce the most acids and can eventually damage teeth. Hard candies that are loaded with sugar are in the mouth a long time and can be particularly harmful to your teeth. Since most people do not brush after snacking, it can lead to tooth decay.
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Avoid Stains
Some substances stain the teeth and take away from your natural, beautiful smile. Tobacco products that are smoked or chewed can leave the teeth looking dingy and stained. Some beverages like tea, coffee, sodas and red wine can leave stains on the teeth. By avoiding tobacco products and staining beverages you’ll keep your teeth whiter and more beautiful for a long time.
To ensure a healthy mouth, you should visit your Markham dentists at least twice a year. Regular six-month checkups can prevent small problems from becoming a large one and prevent lasting damage to the teeth and gums. Your dentist will perform a thorough examination and most likely recommend a regular cleaning schedule for your teeth to keep them looking bright and white. It is also important to check with your dentist if you have any problems in between scheduled visits. Report any bleeding or swollen gums, pain in the teeth or mouth and chipped or damaged teeth to your dentist immediately to ensure proper care.
