Positive Dental Habits

The key to developing positive dental habits is setting a solid routine. Keeping your teeth consistently clean and healthy, as well as maintaining a healthy diet, are great ways to avoid costly and painful dental procedures in the future. Here are simple ways to create a dental routine and gain positive dental habits.

1. Brush Your Teeth Thoroughly

Yes, there is a right way to brush your teeth! Try to brush your teeth for two minutes at a time, using small circles to clean every surface of your teeth effectively. Ask your dentist for tips on how to brush your teeth properly if you don’t think you have the technique down right.

2. Floss Everyday

Only a third of Americans floss their teeth daily, but it’s a necessary habit that everyone should develop! Flossing clears plaque and bacteria from tight spaces that your toothbrush can’t reach. Not flossing can put you at risk for gum disease, which starts when plaque and bacteria get trapped under the gum line and make your gums infected and inflamed.

3. Rinse Well

After you’re done brushing and flossing, rinse your mouth to wash away any bacteria and plaque that may still be sitting on the surface of your teeth. It’s a quick, simple way to take extra good care of your oral health.

4. Don’t Eat Before Bed

Eating before bed may sound like a great idea, but it can actually cause more harm than good. Our bodies restore and repair while we sleep. Our digestive systems slow down, so they can’t properly break down anything we’ve eaten right before bed. Because of this, we don’t produce as much saliva to wash away bacteria from the surface of our teeth. Try not to eat anything for two to three hours before you go to bed to avoid this. If you’re tempted to fill your belly at night, try keeping a glass of water by your bed to kill any cravings. In general, it is best to avoid sugary, acidic, and sticky foods because they more easily wear down enamel.

5. See Your Dentist Regularly

Just because you carefully brush and floss your teeth doesn’t mean you’re clear of any dental issues. Your dentist will be able to give you a thorough examination and take X-rays of your teeth and gums to rule out any potential issues.

Make it your goal to create positive dental habits in the new year! Our staff at High Point Family Dentistry is committed to providing you with the best oral care and are more than happy to help answer any questions that you may have.