6 Preventative Dentistry Care Tips That Make a Difference

Your teeth are important for your smile and quality of life. If your teeth are unhealthy, you may feel pain or experience embarrassing problems like bad breath. The dentist in Elk Grove Village, IL, can help you maintain healthy teeth and gums. Below, we’ve provided some important tips to help. Here’s what you need to know. 

1. Use Best Practices When Brushing

Toothbrushing is an art. If you’re good at brushing your teeth, you’ll experience less plaque and tartar on your enamel. There are many things you can do to ensure that your teeth are properly brushed. Here are some best practices to follow when brushing:

• Brush for two minutes each time. Use a timer or an electric toothbrush that tracks how long you’ve been brushing your teeth. 
• Don’t push too hard. Maintain light pressure on your tooth enamel when brushing.
• Use a soft-bristle toothbrush. Soft bristle toothbrushes are gentle enough to be used on your tooth enamel, but hard enough to wipe away food particles and plaque.  

2. See the Dentist Twice Each Year

Visit the dentist twice each year – every six months – to maintain clean teeth. Most dental insurance policies will pay for patients to see the dentist twice annually. 

3. Consider Getting An Electric Toothbrush

Electric toothbrushes have been shown to work better against plaque buildup. Get an electric toothbrush to help you maintain clean teeth and healthy gums. 

4. Eat Right and Stay Hydrated

Avoid eating too much sugar. Stay away from sugary desserts and candies. Sugar can cause cavities. Stay hydrated, as well. Drink plenty of water. Drinking water helps wash away food particles that can cause bad breath and plaque buildup. 

Watch your intake of sodas and fruit juices, as these sugary drinks can contribute to cavities. 

5. Floss Daily

Floss your teeth every day. Flossing helps eliminate food particles from between your teeth. Your dentist will show you how to floss. 

6. Brush Your Tongue

Brushing your tongue helps eliminate bacteria that cause bad breath and bacteria buildup in the mouth. 

Do you have questions about how you can take care of your teeth? Ask your dentist during your next dental checkup in Elk Grove Village, IL.