We all want to keep our teeth and gums as healthy as possible. But with so much advice out there, sometimes it can feel overwhelming!
At Anderson Family Dental, we want to make it as easy as possible for everyone in your family to enjoy a lifetime of healthy smiles.
This quick and easy checklist is a great place to start.
HOW TO TAKE CARE OF YOUR TEETH AT HOME
✓ Brush Twice Every Day
Brush for 2 minutes each time.
Brush for 30 seconds in each section of the mouth (upper right, lower right, upper left, lower left).
Don’t forget to brush your tongue.
Bonus points: Use an electric toothbrush like a Sonicare or Oral-B.
✓ Floss at Least Once Every Day
Use string floss or floss picks.
Hug the side of each tooth and slide the floss gently below the gumline.
Use up-and-down strokes to disrupt plaque on the sides of the teeth where the toothbrush can’t reach.
Try flossing before you brush to make sure you do not forget.
Bonus points: Consider adding a water flosser like WaterPik to your routine.
✓ Use Anti-Cavity Toothpaste
Choose a high-quality toothpaste with fluoride.
Avoid harsh ingredients like whitening or tartar control.
Smear a little bit of your toothpaste in each section of the mouth before you start brushing.
Bonus points: Ask your dentist or hygienist what they recommend for your specific needs.
✓ Consider Adding Mouthwash to Your Routine
There are two main purposes for mouthwash: killing germs and strengthening your teeth. Ask your dentist or hygienist what would benefit you the most.
FOOD AND DRINKS FOR HEALTHY TEETH AND GUMS
✓ Stay Hydrated
Having enough saliva helps keep your teeth clean, minimize bacteria, and add important minerals to fight cavities.
Keep a refillable water bottle with you whenever possible.
Swish with water after meals to cleanse food debris from your teeth.
Avoid sipping on sports drinks throughout the day, as their high acidity can do serious damage to your teeth. If you need one, chug it and then swish your mouth with water.
✓ Chew Sugar-Free Gum
Chewing gum between meals stimulates saliva and cleans the teeth.
Bonus points: Choose a gum with xylitol, a natural sugar that fights decay.
EXCEPTION! If you have TMJ disorder such as pain, stiffness, clicking, or crunching in your jaw joints, you should not chew gum.
✓ Try to Eat Plenty of Roughage
Chewing fresh fruits, vegetables, and nuts can help scrape plaque off the teeth.
Fruits, veggies, and nuts contain essential vitamins and minerals that support good oral health and help to prevent many types of oral disease.
A balanced diet may decrease your risks for periodontal disease.
✓ Eat Sweets in Moderation
Enjoying a sweet treat now and then is fine! Just try to avoid snacking on sugars and starches throughout the day, which can increase acid and bacteria in your mouth and lead to decay.
Rinse with water after eating sweet or starchy foods.
Chew sugar-free gum with xylitol after enjoying sweets.
KEEP UP WITH YOUR DENTAL HEALTHCARE VISITS
✓ Stay On a Regular Schedule for Dental Cleanings and Check-ups.
Check in with your dentist and hygienist about the best schedule for your individual needs.
For general maintenance, see your dentist every 6 months.
For active gum disease treatment or certain specific issues, you may need to see your dentist every 3 to 4 months.
Bonus points: Always schedule your next visit before you leave your cleaning appointment! That way, it won’t slip your mind.
✓ Take Care of Any Treatment Recommendations As Soon As Possible
The earlier you take action, the less invasive and more affordable your treatment will be.
Remember that the longer you put off a filling, the bigger your cavity will get!
Talk to our team at Anderson Family Dental about dental financing solutions to ensure your budget never stands between you and good oral health.
If you struggle with dental anxiety, let us know! We have sedation dentistry options to keep you comfortable and relaxed through any treatment.
✓ Ask your dentist about preventive dental care and treatments for snoring and sleep apnea, or if you are experiencing any of the following symptoms:
Do you struggle with stiff jaw joints or sensitive teeth? You may benefit from a night guard!
Does your partner complain about your snoring? We may be able to help with NightLase® or an oral appliance!
Don’t let sleep apnea impact your wellbeing. Talk to us about how we may be able to help!
Does your bite feel unbalanced, or have you noticed your teeth shifting? Ask us about Invisalign®!
READY TO ENJOY A LIFETIME OF HEALTHY SMILES? WE'RE HERE FOR YOU!
We hope this quick and easy checklist helps you feel a little less overwhelmed about keeping your teeth and gums healthy.
If you have any questions, or we missed something on this list, let us know! Our Winter Park dentists are always happy to discuss any concerns you may have.
We look forward to helping you enjoy a lifetime of great oral health with Anderson Family Dental in Winter Park, FL!
Dr. Bryant Anderson, DMD
Dr. Anderson also completed a Mastery program in Dental Sleep Medicine where he gained invaluable knowledge in the treatment of snoring and sleep apnea. He maintains membership in many dental organizations and has received his fellowship in the International Congress of Oral Implantology and his fellowship in the Academy of General Dentistry. READ MORE
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