A Guide To Maintaining and Caring for Your Smile

Your smile is often thought of as one of your most valuable assets, and taking care of your oral health and smile should be a top priority. There are many avenues one can take to protect their smile and in this post, we aim to provide a guide that readers can rely on for best practices on how to maintain and care for your smile.

Brushing and Flossing

Daily brushing and flossing are two simple yet powerful habits that can make a world of difference in maintaining your oral health and caring for your smile, ensuring that it continues to shine brightly. Diving into the art of brushing and flossing, there are a couple of nuances and techniques to take into consideration.

Toothbrush: Opt for an electric toothbrush if possible. These utilize high-speed vibrations and movements that dislodge plaque and debris more effectively than manual brushing alone. This results in a thorough and efficient cleaning experience that leaves your teeth feeling exceptionally clean and refreshed; especially when compared to manual cleaning. If an electric toothbrush is not a viable option for you, then try using a soft-bristle toothbrush and ensure that you brush for a full two minutes, covering all teeth equally.

Frequency: Our teeth build up plaque and debris throughout the day. It would be prudent to brush twice a day — once in the morning, once at night. If you can, give your smile a midday refresher after meals. This is also important for flossing, where you should also strive to floss at least once a day, preferably before bedtime. This ensures that your teeth are free from food particles and plaque buildup, which can lead to cavities and gum disease.

Floss types: There are various types of floss available, from traditional string floss to floss picks and water flossers. Choose the one that feels most comfortable for you, and ensure that it will be one that you will want to use often.

Flossing technique: Many people avoid flossing as they find it either painful or irritating. Avoid snapping the floss into your gums, as this can cause irritation. Instead, use a gentle up-and-down motion to remove plaque and debris.

Diet

While cleaning is important in maintaining and caring for your smile, diet is arguably equally as important. Just as a balanced diet fuels your body’s overall well-being, it plays a crucial role in maintaining a radiant smile. Below are a few key points.

Calcium: Just as calcium fortifies the bones, it’s also a cornerstone of dental health. When you think of calcium, you might immediately think of milk and other dairy products, but there are a plethora of other healthy sources of calcium out there. Leafy greens, almonds, and fortified plant-based milk are all excellent sources of calcium, helping to maintain and care for your smile.

Limit Sugar: Sugary treats and beverages are a playground for bacteria that cause cavities. Based on research done, bacteria that cause tooth decay utilize sugar, breaking it down into acid which will then damage your teeth. Minimize your consumption of sugary snacks and opt for fresh fruits, vegetables, and whole grains instead.

Vitamin D: Vitamin D is essential in allowing your body to properly utilize the calcium you have provided. It allows your digestive system to absorb calcium from your diet. Sunshine, fatty fish, egg yolks, and fortified foods are your go-to sources, ensuring proper absorption of calcium for robust teeth and bones.

Regular Checkups

Regular dental checkups are invaluable when it comes to maintaining and caring for your smile. Far beyond the realm of brushing and dieting, these visits are your passport to a lifetime of strong teeth, healthy gums, and a confident smile. 

Conclusion

The team at Dentist 4U in Mission Viejo is committed to providing exceptional dental care in a welcoming environment. Contact us today, to set the stage for a lifetime of radiant smiles, unbridled confidence, and the peace of mind that comes from knowing you’re caring for your smile in the best possible way.