DON'T Use Teeth as a Tool
Sometimes it can feel like we don't have enough hand to get a task done. Or maybe our grip isn't strong enough to open a container. Whatever the situation, it is never a good idea to use your teeth as a tool. Ripping open a package, biting down on a soda bottle cap, holding something in your mouth while you get your keys... These are all common bad habits that could ruin your teeth or make you sick. Not only can these actions put unnecessary strain on your teeth and gums, but it could cause your teeth to get chipped or cracked. Additionally, foreign objects don't belong in your mouth where they could be spreading germs to the rest of your body. For those reasons, it's important to use your mouth and your teeth for their intended purposes rather than as a multi-tool.
DON'T Chew Ice
Some people have the bad habit of chewing ice when they enjoy a cold beverage. However, this can be very bad for your teeth. Even crushed ice is very hard on your teeth as they try to pulverize the frozen pieces. This can quickly wear down your enamel and even cause chips in your teeth. If you are craving the habit of chewing without calories that come with crackers or chips, try chewing on gum during the day to get it out of your system. It may also be a good idea to avoid using crushed ice in your drinks for a time so it's not as tempting.
DON'T Drink Sugary Beverages
While they might taste great, sugary drinks wreak havoc on your teeth. The sugar sticks to the surface of your teeth and feeds any bacteria present in your mouth. This allows bacteria to thrive and grow, particularly between your teeth where it's harder to remove. Prolonged sugar exposure and bacteria buildup can lead to tooth decay and cavities. It's better to enjoy drinks like water, perhaps with fresh fruit and herbs infused into it for flavor. If you can't stay away and do consume sugary beverages, make sure to rinse your mouth with water afterward to wash away as much of the sugar as possible.
DO Brush & Floss Daily
Access Dental and Dentures recommends that you brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss at least once per day. Brushing and flossing before bed is very important for your dental health, as it removes any food particles or bacteria buildup from the day. Brushing in the morning is also important as it helps break up and remove plaque that started building up on your teeth overnight due to a reduced amount of saliva washing harmful materials away.
DO Use Mouthwash
While it can't replace daily brushing and flossing, using mouthwash can help boost your dental health by destroying bacteria in hard-to-reach places. A good mouthwash can help give you a more all-encompassing clean that leaves you feeling fresh for longer.
Toothbrushes are not meant to be something that you use for very long. Over time, the bristles will start to wear down and bacteria may even build up at the base of bristles from what it has captured while cleaning your teeth. Keep your toothbrush clean while using it - keep it as far away from the toilet (airborne particles) as possible, don't keep it in a cover with no air flow, and regularly clean it with scalding water. This can help keep your toothbrush clean and healthy for the duration of its life. Once your toothbrush is three months old or starts to fade and wear (whichever comes first), then it is time to replace it.
Following these important do's and do not's will help keep your teeth and mouth clean and healthy. However, there are some things that you can't check on yourself. That's where Access Dental comes in! Regular dentist visits are important to make sure no cavities have developed, your teeth are coming in normally, your gums are in good condition, and so much more. Contact the best dentist in the Springfield area to schedule your regular checkups and get on the path to a healthier, happier mouth.
DO Replace Your Toothbrush
Toothbrushes are not meant to be something that you use for very long. Over time, the bristles will start to wear down and bacteria may even build up at the base of bristles from what it has captured while cleaning your teeth. Keep your toothbrush clean while using it - keep it as far away from the toilet (airborne particles) as possible, don't keep it in a cover with no air flow, and regularly clean it with scalding water. This can help keep your toothbrush clean and healthy for the duration of its life. Once your toothbrush is three months old or starts to fade and wear (whichever comes first), then it is time to replace it.
Visit the Best Missouri Dentist
Following these important do's and do not's will help keep your teeth and mouth clean and healthy. However, there are some things that you can't check on yourself. That's where Access Dental comes in! Regular dentist visits are important to make sure no cavities have developed, your teeth are coming in normally, your gums are in good condition, and so much more. Contact the best dentist in the Springfield area to schedule your regular checkups and get on the path to a healthier, happier mouth.
We want to be your dentist because your family deserves a great smile!
1-877-DENTIST
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