What Your Dentist Wants You to Do

As a dentist, I would like to share some habits and practices that can greatly benefit your oral health:

1. Brush your teeth twice a day, for at least 2 minutes. This is the single most important thing you can do to maintain healthy teeth and gums. Be sure to brush in the morning and before bed, and use a soft-bristled toothbrush.

2. Floss once a day. Flossing helps to remove plaque and food particles from between your teeth, where your toothbrush can't reach. Flossing daily can help to prevent cavities and gum disease.

3. Use a fluoride toothpaste. Fluoride helps to strengthen teeth and prevent cavities. Be sure to choose a toothpaste that contains fluoride, and avoid using too much.

4. Rinse your mouth with water after meals. This helps to remove food particles and bacteria from your mouth, and can help to prevent cavities.

5. Limit your intake of sugary foods and drinks. Sugar feeds the bacteria in your mouth, which can lead to cavities. Try to limit your intake of sugary foods and drinks, and brush your teeth after consuming them.

6. See your dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings. Regular dental checkups and cleanings can help to identify and treat oral health problems early on, when they are easier and less expensive to treat.

7. Don't smoke. Smoking damages your oral health in many ways, including increasing your risk of gum disease, oral cancer, and tooth loss.

8. Wear a mouthguard when playing sports. A mouthguard can help to protect your teeth from injury during sports.

9. Avoid chewing on hard objects. Chewing on hard objects, such as ice or pencils, can damage your teeth.

10. Don't be afraid to ask questions. If you have any questions about your oral health, be sure to ask your dentist. We are here to help you maintain a healthy smile!