The Do’s and Don’ts for Good Dental Hygiene

Maintaining your dental hygiene is extremely important for your oral health and your overall health. When you neglect your dental hygiene, you are at risk of periodontal disease, which may ultimately cost you the loss of your teeth. Cavities, oral infections, and gum disease may also increase your risk of harmful health conditions such as cardiac disease. To help ensure you are practicing good dental hygiene,East Gwillimbury dentist Dr. Jameela Jifri has put together some do’s and don’ts for you to follow.

Do’s for Good Dental Hygiene

Since childhood, you have probably been taught that good oral hygiene starts with proper brushing and flossing. It’s important to brush at least twice each day and floss at least once each day. You should also use a soft-bristled toothbrush because a hard bristle toothbrush may cause the enamel to wear away, and be sure to use toothpaste with fluoride. Other must do’s for maintaining good dental hygiene include:

• Visit your dentist every six months – Not only will your mouth feel clean and healthy, but visiting your dentist will help you avoid tooth decay and gum disease.
• Eat a healthy diet – Eating food that is rich in calcium, and other nutrients will help you maintain strong and healthy teeth.
• Replace your toothbrush every 3 months or more frequently if you have been ill
• Wear a protective mouthguard – If you participate in sports or if you have a habit of clenching your teeth at night, talk with your dentist about a custom-fitted mouth guard to prevent damage to teeth and gums.

Donts for Maintaining Dental Hygiene

Maintaining good dental hygiene also includes some “don’ts” that will help you keep your healthy smile. Along with not using an old, frayed toothbrush, some other don’ts for good dental hygiene also includes:

• Don’t smoke or use tobacco products
• Don’t eat excessive amounts of sugary foods and sodas, especially dark sodas, which can lead to significant staining of the enamel.
• Don’t ignore toothaches and/or bleeding gums.

When it comes to practicing good dental hygiene, it’s important not to skip your routine dental exams. The sooner your dentist identifies a potential problem, the quicker your treatment can start, and the better your chances are of having a healthy smile for life.

To learn more about maintaining your dental health, contact Dr. Jameela Jifri at Harvest Hills Dental Care. New patients in East Gwillimbury can reach us at (365) 659-1008, and existing patients can reach us at (905) 953-1000.

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