It is essential that patients take good care of their smile for a number of reasons. First, it keeps the smile looking its best. Second, it can keep cavities from eating away at the exterior and interior of a tooth, causing possible infection to the dental pulp. Third, it can greatly reduce the risk of issues such as periodontal disease. Dr. Michaela McKenzie of Dazzling Smiles inAtlanta, Georgiais committed to educating her patients on the advantages of proper oral health care.
Below are several tips for proper teeth and gum care to maintain a healthy smile:
- Brushing the teeth brushing the teeth should be done after every meal, or at least twice a day. This is the best way to remove plaque, which harbors harmful bacteria that produce acid. Acid can cause tooth decay, so removing plaque as soon as possible is desirable to keep problems at bay.
- Flossing flossing is often overlooked but can be great in removing plaque from between teeth. It can also remove food particles, which may be stuck in the teeth and become problematic. Flossing can be done after every meal, or at least once a day.
- Eating right it is important to avoid snacks that have a lot of starches and sugars because these produce the most acids in the mouth. This includes hard candies, which can be in the mouth for an extended time and contribute to problems such as cavities and periodontal disease. Patients should maintain a healthy diet and reduce their snacks, avoiding foods such as candies, cake, pie, sugary gums, and chips.
- Visiting the dentist to maintain healthy teeth and gums, patients are encouraged to visit their dentist at least twice a year for recall appointments. During these check-ups, patients can undergo a thorough examination and professional cleaning. The dentist can check for any concerns at this time, and may even take x-rays to check for signs of decay and infection beyond what can be seen with the human eye.
Dr. Michaela McKenzie of Dazzling Smiles works closely with new and existing patients to ensure they have healthy oral care habits and understand the importance of maintaining a healthy smile for life!
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