Having clean, straight teeth throughout your lifetime is not a lofty goal. It is a very achievable goal. A big myth about dental health is that cavities are inevitable. While it is true, according to the American Dental Association, up to 96% of people have some form of tooth decay by 65, you don’t have to. Here are three tips for keeping your teeth healthy throughout your lifetime.
1. See Your Dentist Regularly
The American Dental Association recommends that you see a dentist every six months for a checkup and cleaning. Preventive dental care is one of the best ways to defend against cavities and dental disease. Follow your dentist’s recommendations. If your dentist recommends orthodontic care to ensure you have straight teeth, follow through and get orthodontic treatment.
You must do your part to have straight teeth. Orthodontic care can help.
2. Watch Your Diet
You may not associate your diet with the health of your teeth, but it plays an important role in your oral health. A diet that is full of sugary drinks and sweet foods is a diet that is unhealthy for your teeth. Good nutrition for your body is good nutrition for your teeth. Bacteria that form cavities thrive on a diet that is high in sugars.
Drink plenty of water after a meal to wash away foods that can stick to the teeth and feed bacteria. Dental cavities are like any other disease; they can spread. A healthy diet can ward off cavities.
3.Brush, Floss, Repeat
At home, oral health care is as important as seeing your dentist every six months. You must do your part. Brushing and flossing at least twice daily (preferably after every meal) will keep your teeth healthy and clean. If you have had orthodontic treatment in the past, wear your retainer to keep your teeth straight. Make good oral hygiene a normal part of your daily routine.
Following these three tips to keep your teeth straight and clean will reward you with good oral health throughout your lifetime and a smile that makes you proud. Start taking care of your teeth by making an appointment to see our dentist today. Give us a call today.