Here is a simple guide for the basic steps you can take to take care of your teeth.
Brush: Brush your teeth for 2 minutes, twice a day. Choose a toothbrush that has the ADA Seal of Acceptance and replace it every 3-4 months (even if the bristles look “fine”). Brush the inside, outside, and chewing surfaces of your teeth.
Floss: Floss your teeth once a day. This will take approximately 2-3 minutes. Floss all the way around each tooth, including behind your back molars. If flossing is difficult for you, talk with Dr. Brandon Burger about alternative interdental cleaners.
Mouthwash: Adding an over-the-counter therapeutic mouthwash could be beneficial to some people. Look for a mouthwash with the ADA Seal of Acceptance, as not all mouthwashes are created equal.
Chew Gum: Right after eating, your teeth are more sensitive to abrasion. Thus, using a toothbrush and toothpaste to clean your mouth can actually damage your teeth if done too soon after eating. To clean your mouth, chew sugar-free gum to stimulate saliva flow. This will clear your mouth and deliver fortifying substances to your mouth.
Eat Well: Eat calcium-filled foods, such as cheese, plain yogurt, dark leafy greens, and beans. These will help keep your mouth strong. Avoid starchy, sticky, sugary, and acidic foods.
Drink Water: Drink a lot of water, for your overall and oral health! Fluoridated water is best, and it is available to approximately 75% of the United States.
Visit Your Dentist: It is important to incorporate regular dental visits into your yearly routine. These should happen about once every 6 months. If you are in the Hermitage, Tennessee area, be sure to call Brandon Burger, DDS and set up your appointment today! We can be reached at 615-889-8202. We look forward to seeing you.