Taking care of your dental health has never been more critical. Science has found clear connections between dental health and systemic health problems like heart disease, diabetes, dementia, and high blood pressure—to name just a few. So visiting your dentist in Bonita Springs, FL, every six months for routine teeth cleanings and checkups is an integral part of protecting your overall well-being.
Another important aspect of excellent dental health is your home care routine. Daily brushing and flossing protect your smile and your dental health. Here are some tips and tricks for keeping your pearly whites bright and your dental health on track.
#1 Brush Your Teeth Twice Daily
Bacteria and plaque build up on our teeth after meals, so a good tooth brushing routine includes a morning and evening session that lasts at least two minutes. Be sure to spend at least 30 seconds in each quadrant of your mouth. If you're brushing manually, gently move your toothbrush in circular motions around your teeth at the edge of your gumline, being careful around your delicate gum tissue. Brushing too vigorously around your gums can cause recession.
You might consider switching to an electric toothbrush if you haven't already. These "smart" brushes take the guesswork out of brushing your teeth by alerting you if you're pressing too hard and timing your session for two minutes.
#2 Floss Your Teeth Once a Day
Many people feel tooth flossing is easy to overlook, especially when they're tired or pressed for time. However, flossing removes plaque buildup between your teeth where it can gather, hide, and cause tooth decay.
You can use flossers or an 18-inch strand of floss that you gently move between each tooth in a c-shaped motion. Be sure to use clean floss each time, so you remove bacteria and don't spread it around.
Is It Time for Your Next Teeth Cleaning in Bonita Springs?
Contact Bonita Grande Dental if it's time to schedule your next dental visit or if you have questions about your dental health.