Q: Do you have any general advice on keeping my mouth healthy?
A: Yes, there are some broad topics you should keep in mind as you live day to day. First, try to brush and floss after every meal, and even after snacks during the work day. Keep a brush, toothpaste and floss at work, if possible. If for some reason it’s impractical to brush and floss after a meal, rinse your mouth out with water to flush out any particles of food that may be left. Your floss, by the way, should be good quality and shred-resistant so that it doesn’t bunch up between your teeth and do any damage when you’re using it. Check to make sure the toothpaste you’re using has fluoride in it. Not all do.
Make it a point to visit your dentist at least twice a year, or on the schedule that you and the dentist have established for your particular needs. Watch your diet. High-fiber greens like spinach, lettuce and broccoli can contribute to whiter teeth. Carrots, apples, oranges and celery are also good for your smile because they require lots of chewing, which in turn generates lots of saliva and keeps cavity-causing bacteria from settling on your teeth. Try to avoid sugary drinks and food. The bacteria that live in plaque, the filmy substance on you teeth, interact with sugar to produce the acid that starts the decay process
If you, your family or friends need dental care, we would be honored to provide you with state-of-the-art dental care in our modern dental practice. Refer someone you love to someone you trust!
Presented as a service to the community by Doctors Hoover and Yanda, 39 Milford Drive, Hudson, Ohio 44236. 330-650-0360. www.drshooverandyanda.com