Tips for Keeping Smiles Healthy in San Antonio

Your oral health depends on several key components. Brushing and flossing daily, combined with a healthy lifestyle and routine visits to the dentist can go a long way in keeping teeth and gums in optimal condition. If any one of these key ingredients is missing from your oral healthcare, you could be at risk for serious dental conditions and in need of complex dental treatments.

Routine brushing twice a day, in the morning and evening go a long way in preserving your dental health. Brushing for two minutes removes harmful bacteria so you avoid cavities. Also, brush gently with a toothbrush that has soft bristles, so you do not cause harm to tooth enamel or soft tissues.

While brushing, use a toothpaste approved by the American Dental Association.  Fluorinated toothpaste re-mineralizes tooth enamel, so it is less vulnerable to decay. Many toothpastes also contain whitening agents that can remove stains and keep your smile shining brightly.

Periodontal Care is Essential to Oral Health

Gum health is vital to the longevity of your teeth, and flossing is one way to remove bacteria from under the gum line. Make sure to use a fresh piece of string for each tooth so there is no re-contamination. Water irrigation systems are also an excellent way to clean between teeth, especially for those undergoing orthodontic treatment.

There are a few other items that help you maintain oral health:

• Antiseptic mouthwash: Rinses away bacteria and helps prevent bad breath.
• Portable and Disposable Toothbrushes: Allow for cleaning teeth between meals. 
• Tongue Scrapers: Remove bacteria from the tongue, eliminating bad breath. 

Routine Dental Visits are Vital to Oral health 

Next to a vigorous at-home cleaning regimen, routine visits to the dentist are important to maintain oral health. Despite a person’s best efforts, bacteria accumulate in the nooks and crannies of teeth, and only the special tools of a dental professional can remove them. Dental exams also prevent minor oral health issues from escalating into major problems.

Try to Avoid Tobacco Products

Finally, avoiding tobacco products protects the longevity of your smile. People who smoke are twice as likely to develop gum disease and experience tooth loss. Tobacco decreases oxygen levels in the gums, which makes them vulnerable to infection and gum disease. Tobacco also stains teeth and dries out the mouth. Bacteria multiply in a dry mouth, which leads to tooth decay.

Contact Windcrest Cosmetic and General Dentistry in San Antonio for Outstanding Dental Care

To learn more about techniques in keeping your oral health optimal and receiving vital professional dental care, contact Windcrest Cosmetic and General Dentistry in San Antonio. Dr. Craig Wright and Dr. Andy De la Garza provide outstanding preventive dental care to keep your smile healthy and bright for a lifetime.